Africa-Press – Nigeria. The Bauchi State House of Assembly has been called upon to fast-track the passage of the Commission for Persons With Disabilities, PWDs, Bill currently before it.
The appeal was made by the Executive Secretary of the Bauchi State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Briska Jerome, during the commemoration of the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities held at the Agency’s headquarters.
Jerome said establishing the Commission is critical for providing a solid legal and institutional framework that will drive disability-inclusive development across the state.
According to her, “The establishment of the Commission will ensure sustainable implementation of programmes, protection of rights, and equitable access to opportunities for all persons with disabilities in Bauchi.”
She explained that the annual observance is more than a symbolic event—it is a renewed call to action, reminding government institutions, development partners, and communities of their collective responsibility to build a more inclusive state where people with disabilities can live with dignity, contribute meaningfully, and reach their full potential.
DAILY POST reports that as part of this year’s activities, the Agency organised a road walk and a public sensitisation campaign aimed at engaging communities, increasing awareness, and promoting understanding of disability rights, inclusion, and accessibility.
Jerome appreciated the United Nations Population Fund, UNFPA, the Bauchi State First Lady, and other supporting partners for their consistent collaboration and contributions to the Agency’s work.
Delivering a statement on behalf of the UNFPA Executive Director, Diene Keita, the Gender and Reproductive Health Analyst, UNFPA , stated that full inclusion and safety of persons with disabilities remains essential in achieving an equitable world—especially in the digital era.
Keita noted that globally, one in six people live with a disability, and for many, digital technology has become a powerful tool for empowerment, enabling social connection, expanding job opportunities, and supporting everyday tasks.
She emphasised that some protection efforts inadvertently limit the independence of persons with disabilities by restricting their access to technology instead of ensuring safer digital environments.
Keita also reiterated the need for services that can prevent and respond to technology-facilitated violence, adding that such support must be accessible and available in formats that PWDs can use without depending on others.
Meanwhile, the Bauchi State First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Bala Mohammed, has urged governments, development partners, and well-meaning individuals to intensify efforts in supporting persons with disabilities and reducing the prevalence of street begging.
As part of her contribution, she donated ₦2 million to PWDs through her Al-Muhibba Foundation, reaffirming her commitment to improving their welfare and expanding opportunities for empowerment.
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