Birnin Kebbi — The Kebbi State Government on Wednesday disbursed N100,000 each to 650 persons with disabilities to enable them start businesses of their choice. In addition, the state distributed 100 motorcycles to beneficiaries to enhance their mobility and economic activities.
The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, also contributed by sending packages to 250 persons, while the Governor’s Wife, Hajiya Zainab-Nasare Nasir-Idris, donated 1,000 bags of rice to beneficiaries. The recipients were drawn from across the 21 Local Government Areas of the state, according to NAN reports.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony in Birnin Kebbi, Gov. Nasir Idris said the initiative aims to improve the livelihoods and promote economic independence of people living with disabilities. Represented by his Deputy, Sen. Umar Abubakar-Tafida, the governor expressed appreciation to the First Lady for her nationwide support for persons with disabilities.
Gov. Idris reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the welfare of persons with disabilities remains a priority in government policy. He encouraged the beneficiaries to take advantage of skills acquisition opportunities offered by the government to improve their lives.
In her remarks, Zainab-Nasare Nasir-Idris noted that the 2025 PWDs celebration day recorded notable progress with support from the First Lady. She said each of the 250 beneficiaries supported by the First Lady would receive N250,000 to start businesses, a gesture spanning all 36 states and the FCT. She described the initiative as a deliberate effort to empower persons with disabilities to be self-sufficient and advised them to ensure their children do not rely on begging for a livelihood.
The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Disability Matters, Abba Muhammad-Isa, lauded the First Lady, the governor, and his wife for prioritizing persons with disabilities. He encouraged beneficiaries to pray for them and noted that the APC had demonstrated consistent concern for the welfare of persons living with disabilities.
Earlier, Commissioner for Special Duties, Alhaji Zayyanu Umar-Aliero, highlighted that this year’s PWDs theme, “Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies For Advancing Social Progress”, aligns with Gov. Idris’ vision. He praised the governor for establishing a Disability Commission, ensuring inclusiveness and a platform for lodging complaints.
Abdullahi Usman, National President of People Living With Disabilities, expressed appreciation for the establishment of the Disability Commission, noting that it provides persons with disabilities a voice and recognition equal to that of other citizens.