IDPD 2023: Bankole Calls For More Inclusion, Recognition of PWDs in Nigeria

IDPD 2023: Bankole Calls For More Inclusion, Recognition of PWDs in Nigeria

…..Urges FG to Prioritize Data on Disabilities

By Kabir Akintayo

As the world marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Sunday, the National Leader, All Progressives Congress (APC), Persons With Disabilities (PWDS) Tolu Bankole has called for more inclusion and recognition of PWDs in the country.

Bankole said that, one in every seven Nigerians live with at least one form of disabilities but have differed the odds to bring laurels in sports, made giant strides in ICT, commerce, academics to mention a few.

Bankole, in a statement issued on Sunday with a theme: “United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs for, with and by Persons With Disabilities,” urged Federal Government to focus on ensuring PWDs are well captured through Census which he said, will be vital to deliver the greatest impact.

“This year theme is a stake reminder to invest in Persons With Disabilities if the SDGs will ever be achieved.

“The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.

“This year’s observance has been dedicated to inclusion of PWDs in the 17 SDGs, in the respective countries. Hence, I will attempt to domesticate the broader theme thus: “United in action to rescue and achieve possibilities for, with and by persons with Disabilities in Nigeria,” Bankole said.

While commending President Tinubu for recognizing and inclusion of PWDs in his government, he extended the gesture to Wife of the President, Oluremi Tinubu for her commitment and ceaseless efforts to wipe away the tears of vulnerable Nigerians.

In addition, he commended APC, National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for his commitment to championing the cause  of PWDs in Nigeria.

“We have witnessed political inclusion of PWDs at the cabinet level and as Senior Special Assistant. Also, PWDs have been given a deserving voice in the Renewed Hope Social Programmes of President Tinubu’s administration, as we look forward to monthly cash transfers to the poorest, non interest loans to traders, and other economic empowerment programs to alleviate the plight of PWDs in Nigeria.

“The party will continue to remain the darling of PWDs through strong and consistent advocacy for the inclusion and improvement of lives of PWDs at all levels. Indeed, our amiable National chairman is not joking, but working,” Bankole said.

He therefore, urged government at all levels, private sector and all well meaning individuals to heed the call of the disability with a coined adage ‘Nothing about us, without us.’