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In fulfilment of his administration’s commitment to social welfare and inclusive governance, Governor Dauda Lawal, has approved the establishment of the Zamfara State Persons with Disabilities Board (ZSPDB).
Announcing the development, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, explained that the establishment of the Board follows the recent amendment of the State law designed to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs), protect them from any form of discrimination, and promote equal access to opportunities in every aspect of society.
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Key amendments to the law include the substitution of the board’s ‘Chairman’ with ‘Executive Chairman’; the ‘Executive Secretary’ with ‘Secretary’ and ‘part-time members’ with full-time members. The amended law has also made it mandatory for the members of the board to be among the PWDs to ensure that all activities of the board serve the interests of the targeted groups.
Mr Nakwada said Governor Lawal has appointed Usman Ahmed Nahuche as the pioneer Executive Chairman of the newly established Board. Mr Nahuche, a retired Permanent Secretary from the state civil service and a member of the deaf cluster, brings extensive experience in governance and advocacy.
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Other members of the Board appointed include Mrs Amina B M Audu (spinal cords cluster), Tukur Abdullahi (deaf cluster), Babangida Umar Shinkafi (physically challenged), Umar Babangida Ahmed (blind cluster), Binta Namadi (representative of women), and Sani Abubakar as member.
According to the SSG, the establishment of the Board reflects Governor Lawal’s unwavering commitment to social justice, equity and inclusivity. It reaffirms his belief that persons with disabilities possess unique talents and potential that can be harnessed for the overall progress and development of Zamfara State.
“His Excellency has charged the appointees to work diligently towards uplifting the living standards of PWDs across the State. He also expressed appreciation to all development partners and stakeholders who supported the process of amending the law, reiterating his administration’s readiness to sustain collaborations that will enhance the well-being of the people of Zamfara,” Mr Nakwada said.
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