Gov. Buni Signs Disability Protection Bill Into Law
By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has signed the state Disability Protection Bill into law.
The law provides for the establishment of a commission dedicated to addressing the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
Governor Buni, who announced the setting up of the commission, appointed Usman Bra Gabai as the Acting Chairman of the new disability commission.
Gabai was before the appointment, the state Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities.
The new disability protection law empowers PWDs, and is tailored to eliminate barriers that hinder accessibility and equal opportunities for PWDs in education, employment, healthcare, transportation, and other sectors.
Civil society organisations, including Advocacy for Disability Act Cluster, described the initiative as significant towards the inclusion and empowerment of PWDs in all facets of life in the state.
The Syndicate reports that the commission’s responsibilities include ensuring accessibility in public and private buildings, monitoring compliance with disability rights legislation, advocating for the inclusion of PWDs in decision-making process, and providing support for skills development and economic empowerment.
