A non-governmental organisation, Sir David Osunde Foundation (SDOF), on Friday, said that it is set to empower over 1500 persons living with disabilities (PWDs) to help them strive towards high hope in the country.
It’s noted that there will be a special Easter Monday national celebration, especially for those living with disabilities and those who have decided to be in the same boat with foundation members.
Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee of the foundation, Barrister Ikem Uchegbulam, disclosed this in Abuja, at the press briefing ahead of the easter celebration for persons with disabilities to mark the foundation’s 31 years of humanitarian services.
The event which will hold at the Holy Family Society National Pilgrimage Centre, Gosa, Sabon-Lugbe, Abuja will also feature His Grace, Most Rev Dr Ignatius Kaigama, Archbishop of Abuja and Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, under the distinguished guest of honour, Her Excellency Dame Pauline Tallen, the Hon. Minister of Women Affairs.
Uchegbulam explained that the beneficiaries are not only Catholics, or Christians, but all irrespective of religion.
He said: “We are looking at about 1500 persons that we are going to cater for and provide opportunities to network and mix up and be able to get growth.
“It will not surprise anyone at this point in time, that as we make further progress, more hands are needed to be on deck to make this Foundation carry out her messiah within and outside Nigeria as spread our tentacles to other parts of the world.
“We, therefore, pray that people will sign in shortly to collaboratively build a greater future for this Foundation. What we need now is more commitment from our admirers and supporters so that we can achieve all our set goals.
“Today, as we see these different setups, we feel quite elated that the advocacy programmes we began about 31 years ago have tremendously helped many to set up different schemes or Foundations that are providing valuable assistance to persons with disabilities in the country, among whom are orphans, children, women, the elderly and the vulnerable.
“Having now seen an appreciable improvement in the way many react favourably to calls for assistance for persons with disabilities, we are of the view that the advocacy and an enlightenment programme which our Foundation embarked upon from her inception has gone a long way to change the mindset of many Nigerians towards charitable activities, all to the advantage and benefit of persons with disabilities, and the nation at large.”
