The Federal Government has empowered 250 persons living with disabilities in Sokoto State through the disbursement of N64 million in grants, providing financial support to enhance economic independence and inclusion.
The grants were distributed on Wednesday as part of ongoing government interventions to support persons with disabilities across the country. Each beneficiary received N200,000, aiming to improve livelihoods and foster sustainable participation in economic activities.
A statement from the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa, noted that the disbursement in Sokoto amounted to N50 million, with an additional N2 million each provided to seven disability associations in the state to strengthen existing empowerment initiatives.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Disability Matters, Umar Muhammad Sabon Birni, disclosed that the Sokoto State administration has also restored and increased monthly stipends for registered persons with disabilities from N6,500 to N10,000. Currently, 6,679 beneficiaries receive the allowance, with efforts underway to register more eligible individuals.
The state government has further supported persons with disabilities through initiatives such as Ramadan feeding centres and the provision of 1,000 hand-cycles to improve mobility and independence.
During the event, the First Lady of Nigeria, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, represented by the wife of the Sokoto State Governor, Fatima Aliyu, highlighted the importance of providing both financial support and broader social interventions, including in agriculture, education, health, and social welfare, to ensure the holistic empowerment of persons with disabilities.
The event also featured a para-soccer match between the governor’s team and the First Lady’s team, during which her team won 2–1. The Sokoto Para-Soccer Team presented a trophy to the governor’s wife, celebrating the achievements of persons with disabilities in the region.
The initiative underscores the Nigerian government’s commitment to creating inclusive opportunities, promoting social welfare, and enhancing the quality of life for persons living with disabilities across the nation.
