Tinubu committed to equal opportunities for PWDs, says aide

Mohammed Isa, senior special assistant to President Bola Tinubu on disability matters, says the president is committed to inclusion and equal opportunities for People living With Disabilities (PWDs).

Isa said this during a press briefing on Wednesday, while thanking the president and other stakeholders for his appointment.

“I wish to express my deepest gratitude to President Tinubu for the honour of my appointment as the senior special assistant to the president on special needs and equal opportunities,” he said.

“This rare privilege to serve and deliver impactful change to my community is not just an individual honour but also a remarkable demonstration of the president’s commitment to inclusivity.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to his esteemed self.

“I would also like to express my gratitude to the energetic, purposeful and people-oriented Mr. Seyi Tinubu for being a selfless and notable voice for people with disabilities.

“His stance on disability representation and participation is commendable and has brought about unprecedented success in equitable representation particularly for people with disabilities.

“I look forward to more collaborative efforts with him in championing the cause of disability inclusion.

“Indeed, my appointment is a powerful acknowledgment of the abilities and potentials of persons with disabilities and proof of the administration’s dedication to ensuring that all segments of society are active participants in the nation’s progress.

“Thankfully, Mr. President has a special knack for spotting talents and rewarding hard work.”

Isa added that in conjunction with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), he will put in place mechanisms for the amendment of the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.

He also promised to liaise with the ministry of transport to “immediately put in place the process of formulating policies on transportation for PWDs to aid their movement”.

He said he will work with heads of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to “ensure the setting up of disability desk officers in their agencies and formulation of inclusive policies and enabling environment for persons with disabilities”.

He also said he will discuss with the poverty alleviation agencies and ministry to include PWDs in their relief packages, liaise with development agencies to enhance the employability skills of PWDs, and set up a task force to ensure enforcement and implementation of disability laws.