By Mohammed Dala Lawan
The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, JONAPWD, Yobe State Chapter, has called for more inclusive governance and greater participation of persons with disabilities in politics and public service.
Chairman of the association, Yawudi Barma, made the call while addressing stakeholders, urging the government to address the challenges facing persons with disabilities in the state.
He commended the Yobe State Government for establishing the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, following the passage of its bill in December 2024, describing the governor as disability-friendly.
However, Barma noted that key issues remain unresolved, particularly in the areas of political inclusion and employment opportunities.
He stressed that with the local government elections scheduled for June 6, persons with disabilities are ready and qualified to contest elective positions, insisting on the association’s slogan, “Nothing about us without us.”
The chairman also expressed concern over the low level of inclusion in public sector employment, revealing that out of over 5,000 recent government recruits, less than one percent are persons with disabilities.
He further called for adequate funding of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities and greater inclusion in political appointments, including advisory and board positions.
Chairman JONAPWD, added that the association has over 14,000 registered voters with disabilities in Yobe State, emphasizing their significance in the democratic process.
He, therefore, urged the government to recognise their contributions and give priority to their concerns.
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