No fewer than 36 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT have received assistive devices from the Justice, Development and Peace Caritas Initiative (JDPCI), Abuja Archdiocese.

The distribution was part of the Bold Action to Strengthen Inclusive Care in Communities (BASICC) programme, funded by Christian Blind Mission (CBM) International.

Beneficiaries received hearing aids, walking sticks, crutches, wheelchairs, tricycles, and other mobility aids to improve functionality, independence, and social participation within their communities.

Speaking at the distribution ceremony on Sunday, JDPCI executive director Sebastian Sanni said the initiative aimed to promote inclusivity by empowering persons with disabilities, regardless of gender, tribe, or religion.

“These devices will enhance your mobility and independence. Once empowered, you can unlock the gifts within you; disability doesn’t mean inability,” Mr Sanni said.

Mr Sanni reaffirmed JDPCI’s long-term commitment to supporting PWDs across the FCT and beyond, pledging continued advocacy and service toward inclusive development and community participation.

Ubong Anyang, a consultant at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, explained that every beneficiary underwent a thorough assessment to match them with devices suited to their specific physical needs.

Sumaila Adamu, a tricycle recipient, expressed his gratitude.

“I lost the use of my legs 19 years ago. Today, I feel reborn. This gift will change my life,” he said.

Gerald Telle, chairman of the Ward Development Committee, lauded JDPCI and CBM, noting that past beneficiaries of their skills training were now self-reliant and contributing to society.

Programme director of JDPCI, Timothy Ejeh, said more than 73 assistive devices had been distributed in 2025 alone, with further plans for skills training and accessibility infrastructure at health centres.

“Our goal is to move inclusive development from policy to practice,” Ejeh stated.

He affirmed that JDPCI aligned its work with CST, CBID, UNCRPD, and the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy.

(NAN)