Empowerment Initiative for Persons with Disabilities Launches Farmers’ Cooperative Office in Minna
The Empowerment Initiative for Persons with Disabilities (EIPWD) has officially inaugurated a new Farmers’ Cooperative Society office in Minna, Niger State, as part of its ongoing efforts to empower persons with disabilities (PWDs) and promote inclusive agricultural development.
The event, held at POWA Plaza, Dutsen Kura, attracted key stakeholders from the agricultural sector, development partners, and representatives of various advocacy groups.
During the commissioning ceremony, Dr. Mathew Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Niger State Ministry of Agriculture, praised PWDs for their resilience and continued collaboration with government agencies.
He highlighted that the establishment of the cooperative aligns with the state government’s agenda for inclusive growth under Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.
Dr. Ahmed assured ongoing support for farmers with special needs, including data integration into the state’s agricultural database and a ₦50,000 support grant for the cooperative’s operations.
Mr. Sammy Adigun of Niger Foods and Logistics reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to social responsibility and inclusive partnership.
Representatives from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), and other partners emphasized their ongoing support and collaboration, with VCDP Coordinator Hajiya Hadiza Isah noting support for over 200 PWD farmers across nine local governments.
Chief Host and state APC PWD Leader, Mallam Isah Umar Aliyu, underscored that disability does not hinder productivity and highlighted that many PWDs are already engaged in farming activities. He stressed that the initiative reflects Governor Bago’s vision for food sufficiency and called for empathy and opportunities for PWDs.
Mohammad Abubakar Enegi, Executive Director of EIPWD and Cooperative Chairman, announced that 162 farmers had already registered under the cooperative, aiming to reframe public perception of PWDs as agents of transformation rather than dependents.
The guest speaker, Hajiya Jummai Gimba, presented on the topic “Inclusive Agriculture In The Renew Hope Agenda,” explaining that the Renew Hope Agenda is a comprehensive plan to improve and ease the lives of citizens, covering sectors such as the economy, agriculture, health, education, and security.
She noted that the PWD agricultural initiative is a game changer that will empower members and improve their livelihoods by fostering self-reliance and contributing to the state and country’s development, especially in food security and sufficiency.
The guest speaker also emphasised that challenges may arise, but with perseverance, success is possible. She urged them, as part of a progressive society, to partner with relevant organisations that can support their initiative.
