The Vulnerable People Support and Development Initiative (V-PeSDI) has intensified advocacy for inclusive governance in Kano State, engaging the state government on proposed amendments to the Persons with Disabilities Law while recognising the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs, Hajiya Amina Sani Abdullahi, for her contributions to vulnerable groups.
The V-PeSDI Coordinator, Aftahana Dahiru Sarina, led the advocacy delegation during a visit to the ministry. Other members of the team included Malam Salisu Yusuf, Hafsat Adamu Idris, and Amatulmannan Mikaeel Ishaq.
During the meeting, the group highlighted the need to review key provisions of the Kano State Persons with Disabilities Law (Amendment No. 1) 2022 to strengthen institutional efficiency and ensure broader inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in governance.
Among the proposals presented was the transfer of supervisory authority over the Disability Commission from the Office of the Governor to the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs, in line with ongoing administrative restructuring.
The team also called for stronger involvement of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs in designing and implementing capacity-building programmes tailored for persons with disabilities.
On representation, V-PeSDI proposed reducing the number of emirates represented on the Commission from five to four, a move it said would enhance inclusivity and streamline participation.
Additional recommendations included expanding the Commission’s board to accommodate non-governmental organisations working on disability issues, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Internal Security and the police.
To strengthen governance and legal compliance, the delegation further suggested appointing the Commission’s Secretary or Legal Adviser from the Ministry of Justice, while also recommending that the head of the Commission be designated as an Executive Chairman for clearer leadership structure.
The group emphasised the importance of convening a multi-stakeholder forum to deliberate on the proposed amendments, noting that inclusive dialogue would foster a more comprehensive and widely accepted legal framework.
As part of the visit, V-PeSDI presented a letter of recognition to the Commissioner in appreciation of her commitment to advancing the welfare of vulnerable populations in the state.
Responding, Hajiya Amina Sani Abdullahi expressed gratitude for the recognition and commended V-PeSDI for its advocacy efforts. She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the amendment process and strengthening policies that promote inclusion and protection for persons with disabilities.
The visit concluded with the formal presentation of the recognition letter and a group photograph to mark the occasion.