In Kogi State, the Leprosy Mission Nigeria has empowered over fifteen persons with Disabilities and those affected with Leprosy with Start-up Kits worth over N8 million.
In his welcome address the National Director of Leprosy Mission Nigeria, Dr. Sunday Udo, noted that the reasons behind the empowerment are to enable the PWD and people affected with Leprosy to live a good life, become employers of Labour and be useful to their families and communities.
Dr. Udo represented by Sandra Sochima Ijere, said the Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN}), a non-governmental organization that was established in 1986, envisions Nigeria as an inclusive society where leprosy is defeated, and people affected by leprosy and disabilities live life in all its fullness.
“We want to see Zero Leprosy in Nigeria which translates to Zero Transmission of Leprosy, Zero Disabilities caused by leprosy, and Zero Discrimination of persons affected by leprosy and disabilities.
“To accomplish this vision and in partnership with The Leprosy Mission Sweden, we embarked on the SCRINN Project. SCRINN, an acronym for Strengthening Community Resilience in Northern Nigeria, is a cause close to our hearts, it is an initiative that seeks to enhance sustainable livelihoods and build resilient communities empowered to take full responsibility for their lives, advocate for their rights, and contribute to the development of a more inclusive society.
In addition, he said to stop discrimination against people affected by leprosy, the mission has engaged in awareness creation to let the people know that leprosy is curable and preventable.
He noted that in alignment with the ongoing partnership and commitment to the Government of Kogi State, The Leprosy Mission Nigeria, in November 2022, enrolled 50 children of persons affected by leprosy and disabilities from the Oyi, Isaniu, Mopa-Muro, Okene, Adavi, Okehi, Omala, and Lokoja communities in Kogi State into vocational skills training programs.
According to him, these skills included baking and pastries, tailoring, shoe and bag making, automobile repairs, welding, computer repairs, and phone repairs, among others.
She said out of these 50 participants, 33 were empowered with start-up kits in October 2023.
“Today, we take this initiative further by distributing start-up kits to an additional 15 Individuals who have demonstrated remarkable determination, resilience, and commitment to excelling In their chosen vocations. We remain dedicated to supporting their potential and ambition as they pursue their dreams.
“The start-up kits we distribute today symbolize more than tools and equipment; they represent keys to a brighter future, hope, and self-sustainability.
“We have also implemented measures to mentor and Monitor all beneficiaries until they achieve independence. We firmly believe these individuals will not only use these tools for personal growth but also contribute significantly to society, showcasing the Immense capabilities within them.”
Earlier in his welcome address the Kogi State Programme Officer of the project, Mr. Reuben Isaiah, congratulated the beneficiaries for being considered for the empowerment.
He charged them to put the items to good use, warning that the items must not be sold or misused, adding that the beneficiaries would be made to sign an undertaking that the items would be put to good use.
He added that the items are worth over eight million naira and thanked the leprosy mission for the gesture.
Speaking also the Chairperson of Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET), Idris Ozovehe Muraina appreciated the Leprosy Mission Nigeria for their unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, particularly persons with disabilities (PWD), in Kogi State.
Speaking further he said “Your consistent efforts to uplift and empower those in need are truly commendable and have made a significant impact in our communities.
“We assure you of our continued support and collaboration as we work together to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for all.
“Additionally, I would like to congratulate the beneficiaries of the empowerment materials being distributed today. I encourage you to make the most of these resources and utilize them judiciously to enhance your livelihoods and improve your quality of life.
The Commissioner of Women Affairs, represented by Onumoko Adeniyi, Commended Leprosy Mission Nigeria for the gesture and urged the beneficiaries to make the best of the equipment.
(Kogi Flame)
