In response to the prevailing hardships faced by Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) in Nigeria, TAF Africa has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to incorporate PLWDs into intervention committees aimed at addressing hunger and other forms of adversity.
Ambassador Jake Epelle, the Chief Executive Officer and founder of TAF Africa, emphasized this plea in an open letter titled ‘An Urgent Appeal to Address the Crippling Impact of Economic Crisis on Vulnerable Nigerians, Particularly Persons With Disabilities,’ delivered in Abuja on Tuesday.
This appeal precedes the anticipated release of 42,000 tonnes of grains from strategic reserves nationwide, pledged by the federal government to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians.
Ambassador Epelle stressed the importance of President Tinubu ensuring the inclusion of PLWDs in committees overseeing the distribution of grains and their involvement in other relief efforts.
He highlighted that PLWDs constitute a particularly vulnerable segment of society requiring significant attention from the government to alleviate their challenges.
Ambassador Epelle expressed concern over the disproportionate impact of the current economic difficulties on PLWDs, who already encounter substantial obstacles due to societal prejudices and infrastructural limitations.
He further lamented the severe economic challenges affecting PLWDs nationwide, including the escalating costs of essential medications, assistive devices, food supplies, and specialized care, which have placed PLWDs in precarious circumstances, jeopardizing their well-being and independence.
