BY NGOZI A. NWANKWO

Push towards attaining self-reliance by Persons with Disabilities (PWD) has received a boost as the Federal Government, through the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the empowerment and their inclusion  through a transformative training and empowerment programme.

The initiative brought together representatives from diverse disability clusters and served as a platform to equip beneficiaries with the necessary tools and knowledge to pursue self-reliance through Point-of-Sale (POS) business ventures.

In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, represented by the Acting Director of the Planning, Research, and Statistics Department, Mr Francis Idowu described the programme as a significant step in NCPWD’s mission to foster an inclusive and equitable society.

“Empowering PWDs is at the core of our mandate, and initiatives like this POS business training provide tangible pathways to economic independence. We call on Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as NGOs and stakeholders, to collaborate with us in creating sustained opportunities for persons with disabilities to thrive and contribute to national development,” Gufwan stated.

Facilitating the business training, Idowu urged the participants to remain diligent, focused, and proactive, stressing that while the POS business is lucrative, its success depends on commitment and sound business practices.

The highlight of the event was the official presentation of POS machines to beneficiaries, led by Mr. Olasuji Adewale, former Director of the Planning, Research, and Statistics Department.

Adewale commended the Commission for its dedication to the welfare and economic inclusion of PWDs and encouraged beneficiaries to leverage the opportunity as a springboard to self-sufficiency.

Also, the Human Resources Manager at NCPWD, Mrs A. Oguntade, emphasised that the empowerment initiative is part of a broader strategic intervention—this being the second phase of the programme.

“This programme underscores our commitment to providing sustainable means of livelihood for PWDs.

“We urge the beneficiaries to utilize this support wisely and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the country. The government is resolute in its efforts to ensure that no one is left behind,” she said.