The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Archdiocese, Ignatius Kaigama, has urged the federal government to support the country’s most vulnerable citizens.

He made this appeal during the 33rd Annual Special Easter Monday celebration, organised by the Sir David Osunde Foundation in Abuja.

For 33 years, SDOF has celebrated Easter Monday by uniting thousands of persons with disabilities, offering spiritual encouragement and practical support.

This year’s event took place in both Abuja and Benin, making participation easier for beneficiaries in Nigeria’s northern and southern regions.

Presiding over the Abuja event, Mr Kaigama described the celebration’s impact as “tremendous.”

He noted the heartening sight of diverse people coming together, receiving assistance, and building a sense of belonging.

“This is what we want. Use your gifts to touch lives,” Mr Kaigama urged attendees.

He praised the foundation, saying, “They are touching lives positively. I urge others to follow this grassroots example.”

Mr Kaigama said the foundation distributed assistive devices and materials to over 1,500 persons with disabilities in 2025.

He cited a beneficiary in Akwa Ibom, who now earns a living using a donated tricycle to transport water.

Mr Kaigama emphasised that while individuals and groups like SDOF do much, the government must also fulfil its responsibility to the vulnerable.

Mr Mohamed Isa, special assistant to the president on disability matters, commended SDOF’s dedication to empowering persons with disabilities.

He called the foundation’s legacy “a great milestone” in the journey toward disability inclusion in Nigeria.

Mr Isa said SDOF has empowered over 2,000 PWDs annually for more than 30 years, through assistive devices and other vital support. He encouraged other foundations to emulate SDOF.

Former Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, praised the foundation’s steadfast commitment to uplifting PWDs across Nigeria. She noted the year’s special atmosphere, highlighting the diverse presence of physically challenged participants.

Ms Tallen commended SDOF for consistently providing scholarships, mobility aids, and educational support. She shared inspiring stories like Ayuba Govwa, a past beneficiary who now supports others.

SDOF secretary Emmanuel Obumneme outlined the foundation’s ongoing efforts to support PWDs nationwide. He said assistive devices such as wheelchairs, tricycles, crutches, white canes, and hearing aids were distributed.

(NAN)