Abuja- The First Lady,, Dame Patience Jonathan, has called for increased participation of physically challenged persons in the country’s political, economic and cultural activities.
She made the call when the management of A. Aruera Reachout Foundation (AARF), an NGO, paid her a thank you visit for the successful heart surgeries performed on some children flown abroad recently.
“It is only through this, that the total well-being of the citizenry can be achieved,’’ she said in a statement issued on Tuesday by Omoba Aigbegbele, her Special Adviser on Media.
She called on well-meaning Nigerians to overcome all types of barriers that hinder participation of physically challenged persons in the development of the nation.
“International Day of Persons with Disabilities aims to promote an understanding of disability issues, including the mobilisation and support for the dignity, right and well-being of persons with disabilities.
“The contributions made by these persons with disabilities as agent of change and development in our nation, cannot be over-emphasised,’’ she added.
She enjoyed the various arms of government to take the lead in integrating such persons into the society for rejuvenation of the economy and sustainable development of the country.
The visit of the AARF, a foundation catering for vulnerable children and children with disabilities, was part of activities to mark this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities slated for Dec. 3. (NAN)
