'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - As President Bola Tinubu prepares to reshuffle his cabinet, a prominent advocacy group, PwDs in Politics, has called for the appointment of Hon. Tolu Bankole as the Minister representing Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The group made the recommendation in a formal appeal, citing Hon. Bankole’s exemplary leadership and extensive contributions to the welfare of people with disabilities across Nigeria.
Hon. Tolu Bankole currently serves as the National Leader of Persons with Disabilities in the National Working Committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to PwDs in Politics, Bankole has been instrumental in advocating for disability issues, while mobilizing support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope mantra within the PWDs community.
In the statement, the group highlighted Hon. Bankole’s qualities, describing him as a selfless and progressive leader with a track record of motivating others. His humility, intellect, and friendliness, coupled with a spirit of philanthropy, have earned him widespread recognition. They believe that these qualities, along with his innovative ideas, make him a perfect fit to serve as a minister in President Tinubu’s cabinet.
“Hon. Tolu Bankole embodies selflessness, motivation, humility, intellect, inspiration, friendliness, and progressive thinking. His philanthropic spirit and innovative ideas will significantly benefit your administration, serving as a vital link between the government and Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria,” the statement read.
The group also underscored the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are included in governmental appointments. Nigeria, as a signatory to the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, is obligated to ensure the full inclusion of PwDs in governance. In line with the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, they emphasized the need for the appointment of PwDs in not just governmental roles but also the private sector.
“The appointment of Hon. Tolu Bankole would be a significant step towards fulfilling Nigeria’s commitments to the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities,” the group stated, reiterating the necessity of such representation in the country’s top decision-making bodies.
This appeal comes at a time when there is increased attention on the importance of inclusive governance. PwDs in Politics argue that having Hon. Bankole in the cabinet would not only amplify the voices of disabled persons but also pave the way for policies that address the unique challenges faced by this community.
The group concluded their statement by expressing their highest regards for President Tinubu, urging him to consider Hon. Tolu Bankole for the ministerial position as the administration continues its agenda for a more inclusive Nigeria.