The Kano State Government has announced plans to establish a Commission for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as part of its efforts to promote justice and equity across the state.
The Commissioner for Women and Children with Special Needs made this announcement during a one-day consultative meeting with stakeholders regarding the creation of the PWDs Commission in Kano. Represented by Binta Muhammad Yakasai, Director of the Ministry, the commissioner emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering PWDs. She stated, “This meeting is not only about exchanging ideas, but it marks a step toward ensuring justice, inclusion, and strengthening an important part of our community.”
Yakasai highlighted five key reasons for the need to establish the PWDs Commission in Kano. These include protecting the rights of PWDs by ensuring their rights are upheld and addressing discrimination. Additional reasons include developing and implementing policies, improving accessibility, empowering PWDs through skill-building initiatives, and fostering collaboration with key stakeholders.
As the discussions progressed, stakeholders stressed the importance of focusing on the practical impact of laws and policies on the lives of PWDs, rather than simply creating policies for the sake of it.
“This is not a charity; it is a necessity. Establishing this commission is about fairness, dignity, and equal rights. Let us come together to make it a reality,” Yakasai added.
The meeting, organized by Giving Promise, a leadership and youth collaboration expert with VSO Nigeria, provided an opportunity to discuss the urgent need for a commission to address the challenges faced by PWDs.
Promise underlined the importance of the commission in ensuring appropriate policies for PWDs in Kano, stating, “The government must ensure that everyone is involved in the development of our state. Neglecting PWDs hampers progress. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stress the importance of leaving no one behind, and creating this commission is a step toward ensuring that PWDs are not only included but can also make meaningful contributions to policies that affect them.”
He pointed out two main challenges PWDs face: limited access and the need for a specialized collaborative framework.
He added, “Each group of PWDs has its own unique needs. Without a commission, they will continue to face challenges. If Kano wants to move forward, it must ensure that every citizen can contribute. Establishing this commission is not just a necessity—it is essential.”