Distinguished Guests, Esteemed Colleagues, and Fellow Citizens.
I am honoured to stand before you today to celebrate a remarkable milestone – one year in office as the Executive Secretary, Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs. I am humbled by the opportunity to serve this noble cause and grateful for the trust placed in me.
THANKSGIVING AND APPRECIATION
I express heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for entrusting a person with disability to lead this noble agency. This gesture has proven that there’s ability in disability.
I also appreciate the Accountant General, Chief Dr. Habibat Oyiza Tijjani Nee Onumoko FCNA FCTI, aka Inclusive Mama, for her kindness and support, which has been a constant source of inspiration.
To our esteemed guests, directors, staff of KOSODA and disabled community stakeholders, I thank you for your presence and contributions.
ACHIEVEMENTS
Over the past year, we’ve made significant progress in empowering persons with disabilities. We’ve distributed mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, walking sticks, Crutches, Walking Flame and hearing aids, to those in need. I’ve also launched the “Ododo/Habibat Disability Education Project,” which aims to transform education for persons with disabilities across Kogi State using Kogi Central as a starting point and committed to expand to other zones in the next phase.
Through this initiative, I’ve provided support to children with disabilities, paid school fees for those already in school, and distributed educational materials. I have also provided financial aid to over 80 persons with disabilities, enabling them to boost their businesses, pay for healthcare, and improve their economic well-being across the State.
MAKING OUR OFFICE ACCESSIBLE
I’ve taken steps to make our office more accessible for persons with disabilities. We’ve constructed the floor with concrete, and taken other steps to ensure that persons with disabilities can access our services and structure easily.
CHALLENGES AND LESSONS LEARNED
I’ve encountered obstacles and setbacks, but I’ve persevered, driven by my commitment to our mission. I’ve learned valuable lessons about the importance of collaboration, the need for flexibility, and the power of community engagement.
FUTURE PLANS AND INITIATIVES
As I look to the future, I am excited about the opportunities ahead. I will continue to work tirelessly to empower persons with disabilities, promote inclusivity, and advocate for their rights. I will launch new initiatives and build on our success.
APPRECIATION
I’d like to express my gratitude to Almighty Allah for guiding us, and to our former Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, for laying the foundation for inclusivity, and unreserved appreciation to Her Excellency, Barr. Amina Bello, who had gifted me a Heavy Duty Electric Motorize Wheelchair. I’d also like to thank my team for their hard work and dedication, and our partners and stakeholders for their collaboration and support.
OVERALL,
As we celebrate this milestone, I am reminded that my work is far from over. I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that persons with disabilities have the opportunities and support they need to thrive. Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
May God bless and reward His Excellency, the Accountant General, and all who have supported us. May God grant us wisdom, strength, and continued success in serving persons with disabilities. May Kogi State continue to shine as a beacon of inclusivity and development. Ameen.
Thank you.
Hon. Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem (Brain Not Legs)
Executive Secretary, Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs