Kwara PWDs call for establishment of disability commission
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities in Kwara State has called on the state government to establish a disability commission to promote the welfare of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and ensure adequate representation of their interests.
The association said the proposed commission would provide a dedicated platform for advocating the rights of PWDs, addressing their challenges and ensuring they benefit from government policies and programmes. The state Chairman of the National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Kwara State chapter, Comrade Ibrahim Muftau, made the call while speaking on behalf of the association at an event marking World Polio Day in Ilorin on Wednesday.
Muftau also urged governments at all levels and relevant organisations to prioritise inclusive healthcare and social welfare programmes to address the various challenges faced by persons with disabilities. He stressed the need for sustained support from the public and private sectors to improve their well-being and inclusion in society.
Speaking on the significance of the commemoration, he said the association remained committed to the campaign to eradicate polio, highlighting this year’s theme, “One day, one focus: ending polio for good.” He appreciated private sector organisations and non-governmental organisations that had partnered with the disability community, urging them to sustain their contributions and support.
In a health education session, a gynaecologist, Dr. Abubakar Emmanuel, spoke on polio, diabetes and high blood pressure management. He urged members of the association to maintain clean surroundings and ensure they and their children receive polio vaccinations when made available by the government. He also encouraged parents of children with physical disabilities to allow them access to opportunities that would help them develop their abilities and maximise their potential.
On diabetes and hypertension, Emmanuel advised participants to adopt healthier lifestyles, including reducing excessive salt intake and eating more fruits with low sugar content. He warned that uncontrolled diabetes could lead to complications, including blindness, and stressed the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels, particularly among pregnant women. He also discussed blood pressure management and the importance of adequate hydration.
In her goodwill message, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, represented by the Assistant Director of School Services, Adegoke Adejoke, reaffirmed the importance of inclusive education. She said every child deserved access to quality education, regardless of physical ability, and encouraged parents to ensure their children received immunisation against polio when vaccines were provided by the government.
The event also featured free blood pressure checks for participants as part of efforts to promote health awareness and encourage early detection of potential health problems.
