From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government is set to launch a special skills acquisition programme for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu made this announcement during the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebration held in Sokoto.
According to the Governor, the programme is part of efforts to ensure that physically challenged individuals are gainfully employed and to reduce street begging among them.
He also assured the PWDs in the state that the AbdulRasheed Adisa Raji Special School in Sokoto would receive the necessary support to continue providing high-quality education to physically challenged students.
“Let me also assure you that the government will sponsor your children to study in any tertiary institution of your choice, enabling them to acquire higher education,” Gov. Aliyu said.
“This administration is committed to ensuring your welfare and that of your children. Therefore, feel free to reach out to me anytime you need assistance,” he added.
The governor mentioned that a special provision had been made for PWDs in the 2025 state budget and urged them to continue supporting the government’s efforts to transform Sokoto State.
He noted that his administration had increased the monthly allowances for PWDs, raising the amount from N6,500 to N10,000, as part of efforts to create jobs and reduce street begging.
Additionally, the state government has provided several palliative measures for PWDs, including the establishment of special Ramadan feeding centers across all 23 local government areas of the state.
Currently, 6,679 registered PWDs benefit from the monthly allowance, with plans to increase the number of beneficiaries to 10,000.
Gov. Aliyu also announced the fulfillment of a pledge to provide 500 wheelchairs to PWDs, with another 500 wheelchairs to be distributed across the 23 local government areas.
He reassured the people that his administration would continue to develop programs aimed at improving the lives of PWDs.
The governor also announced a donation of N10,000 each to the 6,679 PWDs from the APC leader in the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko.
Amina Kaoje, the overseer of the Sokoto State Agency for the Physically Challenged Persons, commended Gov. Aliyu for his attention to the agency and the PWDs.
She appealed to the governor for larger office space and additional vehicles for the agency’s operations.
During the event, some PWDs received wheelchairs, and many expressed gratitude for the governor’s commitment to fulfilling his promises.
They prayed for divine blessings, wisdom, and good health for Gov. Aliyu to continue his work for the betterment of the state.
The celebration’s highlight was a football match between two para-soccer teams, with the winners receiving a trophy and N1 million, while the losers were awarded a trophy and N500,000 from Gov. Aliyu.
