By Tom Garba, Yola
In celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2024, Dr. Maurice Vunobolki, a development expert and State Project Coordinator of the Northeast Multisectoral Crisis Recovery Project (MCRP) Adamawa State, has extended a generous hand to persons with disabilities in Adamawa State.
Dr. Maurice joined global efforts to mark the day, themed “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”
He visited hundreds of individuals with disabilities at their center in Yola North Local Government Area, where he made impactful donations through the Vunobolki Care Initiative.
On behalf of his initiative, the recovery expert and financial scholar presented 30 tricycles and N2 million in cash to the association, aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by its members.
While presenting the donations, Dr. Maurice highlighted the resilience and potential of persons with disabilities, emphasizing that they can lead productive lives and contribute to national development.
He urged them to remain determined and focused on achieving their goals. He also called on other members of society to support this vulnerable group through similar acts of generosity.
Adding to the occasion, Her Excellency, Hajiya Lami Umaru Fintiri, wife of the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Neido Geoffrey Kofulto.
She donated food items and announced the allocation of 210 slots of the Fintiri Wallets program to the association, benefiting 10 members from each of the 21 Local Government Areas in the state.
The United Nations General Assembly established the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992 to promote awareness and support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities worldwide.
Comrade Abdullahi Toungo, Founder/Director of the Vunobolki Care Initiative and Chairman of the Adamawa State Physically Challenged Association, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Maurice for his contributions.
He assured that the tricycles and cash would be used effectively.
He also noted the consistent efforts of the Vunobolki Care Initiative in providing critical support across the state, including distributing educational materials, medical supplies, and food items to beneficiaries.
The event’s highlight was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Dr. Maurice by the National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities in recognition of his outstanding contributions to humanity.
