Kano PWD Groups Seek Immediate Take-off of Disability Commission, Laud Gov. Yusuf’s Inclusive Governance

Associations of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Kano State have commended Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf for his commitment to inclusive governance while calling for the immediate implementation and take-off of the Kano State Disability Commission.

The groups also lauded the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, for his sustained engagement with disability organisations and efforts to ensure that their voices are reflected in governance.

The commendation and appeal were contained in a statement jointly signed by the leadership of the PWD associations and made available to newsmen in Kano on Saturday.

The associations said Waiya’s inclusive approach had strengthened confidence among members of the disability community and demonstrated the administration’s commitment to social justice and equal participation.

While acknowledging the governor’s support for persons with disabilities, the groups expressed concern over what they described as the poor relationship between disability organisations and the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Disabilities.

They alleged that recognised disability organisations were frequently sidelined in decision-making processes and the implementation of programmes affecting persons with disabilities in the state.

The associations also decried what they described as inadequate consultation with disability stakeholders and the exclusion of legitimate representative bodies from government engagements and the distribution of welfare packages.

They cited the recent distribution of Eid sacrificial cows donated by the governor, alleging that the items were distributed to selected individuals based on personal affiliations rather than through recognised disability leadership structures.

According to the groups, the development generated dissatisfaction among members of the disability community and was inconsistent with the governor’s vision of inclusive governance and social protection for vulnerable groups.

They urged the state government to constitute a high-powered committee to facilitate the implementation and take-off of the Kano State Disability Commission.

According to them, the commission will provide a dedicated institutional framework for addressing disability issues, protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, coordinating interventions and ensuring effective implementation of disability-inclusive policies.

The associations expressed confidence that the establishment of the commission would enhance inclusion, accountability, representation and service delivery for persons with disabilities across the state.

They reaffirmed their commitment to constructive engagement and partnership with the Kano State Government in promoting the rights, welfare and development of persons with disabilities.

The statement was jointly endorsed by the Chairman of the PWDs Association in Kano State and seven cluster heads, including the leadership of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, the Spinal Cord Injuries Association, the National Association of the Blind, the Lepers Association, the Albinism Association, the Deaf Association and the Physically Challenged Association.