The Executive Director of Community Support and Development Initiatives (CSADI), Hajiya Zainab Ahmed Suleiman MFR, JP has reiterated the organization’s long-standing commitment to improving the lives of persons living with disabilities (PWDs), particularly women, as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Speaking on Wednesday during a celebration organized for 30 women with disabilities under CSADI’s support network, Hajiya Zainab said the organization’s passion for disability inclusion began over two decades ago, inspired by the performance of a former staff member living with disability.
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She recalled that the staff instantly changed her perception about PWDs.“Initially, when I saw him, I was shocked, but he assured me there was no problem,” she explained. “He turned out to be one of the most intelligent staff we ever had. There was significant progress while he worked with us, and today he is holding a high-ranking position in Kano.”
According to her, this experience strengthened CSADI’s drive to continue working closely with people living with disabilities and provide them with support beyond humanitarian gestures.
Despite the current economic challenges, CSADI deliberately ensured that the 2025 commemoration was observed, especially for the women beneficiaries and their families. The event was attended by the women, their husbands, and even newly married beneficiaries who joined the celebration virtually from Saudi Arabia.
The Executive Director disclosed that the women are enrolled in various empowerment initiatives, including skill acquisition, education support and financial inclusion programs.
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She noted that through the Savings and Loans scheme facilitated by CSADI, the women have collectively saved about ₦60,000, while CSADI has added additional support of over ₦100,000 to be disbursed next month.
Beyond financial support, Zainab emphasized that emotional and psychological counseling remains crucial due to persistent stigma and discrimination faced by persons with disabilities.
She stated that while only a few beneficiaries have secured formal employment, CSADI continues to advocate for greater inclusion in government programs and adherence to disability-related policies.
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“The government cannot shoulder everyone’s responsibility,” she said, “but the policies in place for persons with disabilities must be implemented. We believe that after today’s celebration, if government agencies hear their concerns, they will invite us for further discussions.”
Speaking on behalf of the women with disabilities, Badiya Muhammad thanked CSADI for its continuous support and prayed for Allah to continue guiding the Executive Director and bless her with good health.
Another beneficiary, Mustapha Usman, also expressed appreciation to CSADI for its support.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed annually to promote awareness, inclusion and respect for people living with disabilities worldwide.