By Yusuf Mohammed Lawan, Gombe
Published on May 8th, 2026
A prominent advocate for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nasarawa State, Mr. Abubakar Labaran had paid a courtesy visit earlier Thursday to the Executive Chairman of the Nasarawa State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Kassim Muh'd Kassim, at his office, where critical issues affecting education and disability inclusion were discussed.
The meeting was described as productive and fruitful, focusing on the advancement of quality education and equal opportunities for all citizens across the state.
During the visit, the PWD advocate commended the SUBEB Chairman for his dedication and commitment toward improving the standard of education in Nasarawa State. He praised the visible transformation taking place across schools in the 13 Local Government Areas under the chairman’s leadership, noting that many youths in the state appreciate the positive changes being recorded in the education sector.
A major part of the discussion Ability News Network reports centered on the recently concluded teachers’ recruitment application exercise. The advocate appealed for fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunities for deaf persons and other persons with disabilities during the recruitment process.
He explained that several qualified deaf and PWD graduates were unable to complete their applications successfully due to the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) requirement, despite being educated, competent, and capable of contributing positively to the education sector.
The issue of unemployment among deaf persons and persons with disabilities in Nasarawa State was also highlighted during the meeting. An appeal was made for authorities to ensure proper implementation of the 5% disability inclusion policy approved by the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi A. Sule, widely recognized for promoting disability inclusion and equal opportunities in the state.
In addition, concerns were raised over the shortage of teachers and other challenges affecting schools in various Local Government Areas. More support and intervention were requested to strengthen the education sector and improve learning conditions for students.
The advocate further commended Governor Sule for his continued support and commitment toward persons with disabilities, stating that his administration has continued to promote inclusion, empowerment, and equal participation for all citizens regardless of physical ability.
In his response, the SUBEB Chairman appreciated the visit and assured that all concerns and observations raised during the meeting would be carefully considered. He further assured that qualified persons with disabilities who meet the necessary requirements would receive fair consideration during the recruitment process.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment to continue advocating for quality education, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities across Nasarawa State.
