The Catholic Bishop of Yola, Most Rev. Dr. Bishop Stephen Mamza, has donated 93 wheelchairs to People Living With Disabilities (PLWD) in the state.
The event, held at the Catholic Secretariat in Yola, was met with spontaneous jubilation as beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for the life-changing support.
During the wheelchair distribution ceremony, Bishop Mamza emphasized that the donation was made possible through the generosity of the Knights of Saint Columbus, a Catholic organization committed to humanitarian efforts.
He explained that the diocese had reached out to the organization, requesting assistance for individuals struggling with mobility impairments.
In response, the bishop said the Knights of Columbus, stepped in to provide the much-needed wheelchairs, demonstrating their commitment to alleviating the challenges faced by people living with disabilities.
Bishop Mamza highlighted the significance of the donation, and urged the beneficiaries to use the wheelchairs wisely.
He stressed that securing the wheelchairs involved considerable investment, including procurement costs, shipment expenses, and other logistical requirements.
Given the financial, and logistical efforts made to deliver the wheelchairs, he encouraged recipients to take proper care of them, ensuring that they serve their intended purpose for a long time.
“The wheelchairs are of high quality—strong, durable, and comfortable,” Bishop Mamza stated. “If used properly, they will significantly improve the lives of the beneficiaries, easing their mobility challenges and reducing the hardships they face daily.”
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. John Anthony, the assistant secretary of the Association of People Living with Disabilities, thanked Bishop Mamza for his kindness, and dedication to uplifting marginalized groups.
Read also: Gov. Fintiri pledges support for Nigeria Law school in Yola
He described the donation as timely, stressing that many PLWDs had struggled with mobility issues, without access to proper assistive devices.
“This gesture could not have come at a better time,” Anthony remarked. “Bishop Mamza has always been a pillar of support for the less privileged, and his continuous efforts to improve the lives of the underserved deserve the highest commendation.”
Anthony also used the opportunity to call on wealthy individuals, and the government to increase their support for people living with disabilities.
He emphasized the need for more initiatives, aimed at improving the welfare of PLWDs, advocating for an inclusive society where every citizen has equal opportunities.
