The federal government has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by approving a 10 per cent inclusion for Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in all federal government interventions and social safety net schemes under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Dr Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, announced this groundbreaking initiative during the launch of the empowerment programme at the FCT Art and Culture Conference Hall in Abuja.
PLWDs will now have access to various programs, including the End Hunger initiative, Conditional Cash Transfer, N-power, Renewed Hope Shelters Program, Geep Programmes, and the Code Nigeria program, among others.
The National Commission for Persons With Disabilities will play a crucial role in the selection and implementation of these inclusive measures.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognizing the special abilities of PLWDs, has championed this cause, reframing the narrative and fostering a more inclusive society.
Dr. Edu praised President Tinubu for signing the African charter on the protection of the rights of persons living with disabilities and for appointing individuals with disabilities to key positions in the government.
She emphasized the transformative impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to lift 50 million Nigerians, including PLWDs, out of poverty within 42 months.
In a symbolic gesture, the minister presented Point of Sales (POS) machines and N100,000 operational capital to PLWDs. Additionally, she announced N130,000 in scholarship support for PLWDs pursuing tertiary education nationwide and allocated a generous N20 million annual grant to the Association of Persons Living with Disabilities in Nigeria.
This initiative marks a significant stride towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for Persons Living With Disabilities, reflecting the government’s commitment to leaving no one behind on the path to development.
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