Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya has signed the Disability Protection Bill into law, establishing a commission dedicated to addressing the needs of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
The signing ceremony took place on Monday at the Government House in Gombe.
The governor also announced the appointment of Dr. Ishaku Adamu, a senior lecturer in the Department of Political Science at Gombe State University, as the commission’s first Executive Secretary.
Governor Yahaya stated his administration’s commitment to supporting the PWD community, noting several initiatives undertaken since he assumed office.
These include the appointment of a Special Adviser and Special Assistants to coordinate activities and serve as liaisons between the government and PWDs.
Additionally, Yahaya revealed plans to expand educational opportunities for PWDs. He announced directives for the renovation and remodeling of the state’s only Special School and pledged to construct two additional Special Schools, ensuring each senatorial district is equipped with such facilities.
“The establishment of the Disability Commission will serve as a platform to address the needs and aspirations of our brothers and sisters living with disabilities,” Yahaya said, commending the Gombe State House of Assembly and advocacy groups for their role in championing the bill.
Adamu Adamu, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Gombe State, hailed the law as a historic achievement.
“Today, you’ve set a record,” Adamu said. “Fifteen years ago, we took the same bill to the State House of Assembly, and it was rejected. Today, it has been passed and assented to.
“This commission will promote education, healthcare, and the well-being of persons with disabilities.”
Adamu also expressed gratitude to the governor for fulfilling his election campaign promise and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the State House of Assembly and other stakeholders in bringing the bill to fruition.
Speaker of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Abubakar Luggerewo, pointed out the legislature’s dedication to ensuring the bill’s provisions meet the aspirations of the PWD community.
“We meticulously scrutinized every aspect of the bill to ensure its alignment with the interests of persons with disabilities,” Luggerewo said.
