Kwara govt marks IDPD with handball tournament, empowers persons with disabilities

The Kwara State Ministry of Social Development has organised a handball game for para-athletes from within and outside the state to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).

Held at the Handball Court of George Innih Stadium in Ilorin, the event saw Team Kwara win the trophy after defeating Team Ekiti 3–0.

The programme also featured a trade fair and empowerment for dozens of persons with disabilities, who received mobility aids, crutches, walking sticks, wheelchairs, and beading and shoemaking kits.

Speaking at the event on Wednesday, Mariam Nnafatima Imam, the State Commissioner for Social Development, said the programme was organised to show support, ease mobility challenges, and help the beneficiaries grow their businesses.

She appreciated Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for supporting her ministry and for his commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities in the state.

“As you can see, we distributed mobility aids. We also gave out wheelchairs, tricycles, crutches, white canes, sunscreen for persons with albinism, and much more.

“Over the years, we have implemented several programmes, such as skill acquisition for persons with disabilities. Through the Office of the First Lady, the state has also empowered many of them with POS machines and cash transfers to ensure their full inclusion in this government.

“And today, part of what we are celebrating is to showcase to the world that, yes, there is ability in disability, and they are all doing very well. They are happy seeing us around them,” she told journalists.

Bolakale Mogaji, Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, said the game and empowerment programme reflect the government’s love and support, adding that the gesture is capable of changing the mindset of parents who keep their children idle because of physical challenges.

He said Governor AbdulRazaq is renowned for showing love to persons with disabilities and commended the government’s investment in the welfare of special children.

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He noted: “As you are aware, the Governor is a lover of people with disabilities. He has done a lot for them, and he has not stopped.

“What they are doing here today is marvellous. We are celebrating people living with disabilities and empowering them to make life easier and improve their mobility.

“We thank His Excellency for giving back to everybody, both the able-bodied and persons with disabilities. In the sports sector, for instance, the Governor has donated a brand-new car to a person living with a disability. He has not stopped, and I am sure he will continue in that direction.”

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