The Nigeria Association for the Blind, NAB, Niger State Chapter, has appealed to the Niger State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, to support the creation of a state commission dedicated to addressing the needs and challenges of persons with disabilities in the State.
The state chairman of the Association, Mallam Hamza Salihu made the appeal during a visit along with his delegation to meet with council chairman of NUJ, Comrade Abu Nmodu in Minna.
He highlighted the problems faced by visually impaired persons and the need for special government attention to address their physical and psychological challenges.
He urged the media to intensify advocacy and awareness about challenges faced by persons with disabilities just as he expressed optimism that a strong partnership with the NUJ would help amplify their voices to reach policymakers and promote a society where disability is not equated with inability in the state.
“Our visit is part of activities marking the International White Cane Day, celebrated annually on October 15. The white cane is a symbol of freedom, confidence, and self-reliance for visually impaired persons. We believe that with the right support and advocacy, we can promote a society where disability is not equated with inability,” he stated.
Responding, the NUJ, Niger State Council, led by Comrade Abu Nmodu assured that journalists in the state would use their media platforms to amplify the voices of the disabled community and draw the attention of government and stakeholders to their needs.
He commended Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for his administration’s focus on welfare and development programmes while calling for similar gestures to be extended to persons with disabilities, particularly the visually impaired.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that would enhance the living conditions of persons with disabilities.
