'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER — The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria by renewing its partnership with SUNTECH, a leading provider of prosthetics and orthotics in the country.
According to a statement today by Mbanefo JohnMichaels, Head, Press and Public Relations Unit, NCPWD, this collaboration aims to advance local production and accessibility of assistive devices, enabling greater independence and improving the quality of life for thousands of Nigerians with disabilities.
During a recent meeting held in Abuja, Chief Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the NCPWD, emphasized the significance of the partnership, describing it as a transformative step toward inclusivity and empowerment for PWDs.
The renewed partnership includes plans to enhance the production and distribution of vital assistive devices such as prosthetics and orthotics. Following the meeting, Chief Gufwan toured SUNTECH's state-of-the-art fabrication center, which specializes in creating innovative mobility solutions for individuals with physical disabilities, including amputees and those born with deformities.
“This collaboration represents a milestone for our nation,” Chief Gufwan stated. “Nigerians are extraordinary people with immense potential to compete globally. We must seize this opportunity to expand local production of these devices, creating accessible solutions for those who need them most.”
During the facility tour, Chief Gufwan interacted with patients who shared positive feedback about the quality of care they had received. He commended SUNTECH’s role in restoring hope and mobility to accident survivors and individuals with congenital disabilities.
Chief Gufwan also highlighted the broader mission of the NCPWD, which includes recognizing and celebrating PWDs who have made significant contributions to Nigeria. He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to empowering PWDs and fostering respect and inclusion across the country.
Prince Sunny Okachukwu, CEO of SUNTECH, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, praising Chief Gufwan’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of PWDs.
“Chief Gufwan is a true hero, tirelessly working at the grassroots level to improve lives through Project Beautiful Gate,” Okachukwu said. “His impact is felt by many, and we are honored to work alongside the NCPWD to deepen our reach and support for the disability community in Nigeria.”
With this partnership, the NCPWD and SUNTECH aim to make prosthetics and orthotics more accessible and affordable for Nigerians with disabilities. The initiative will also focus on scaling up local production to meet the growing demand for assistive devices, ensuring that PWDs across the country have access to the tools they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
This renewed collaboration underscores Nigeria’s commitment to building a more inclusive society, where every citizen, regardless of physical ability, is empowered to thrive.
