In a significant push toward inclusive development and social equity, The Albino Foundation (TAF) Africa has distributed 45 assistive devices to persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Delta State, marking a major milestone in the implementation of the EU-funded Disability Rights Advocacy and Inclusive Development (D-RAPID) Project.

The intervention, financed by the European Union through the Christian Blind Mission (CBM), targeted beneficiaries in Oshimili South, Ughelli North, and Warri South Local Government Areas; spanning the three senatorial districts of the state.

The distributed items, which included 22 wheelchairs, crutches, and walking canes for the visually impaired, are aimed at enhancing mobility, independence, and overall quality of life for recipients.

Speaking at the distribution event, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, Dr. Jake Epelle, described the initiative as a deliberate shift from advocacy to measurable impact.

“Inclusivity is my broader vision. What we have done here today is to move from mere conversations to concrete, tangible commitment that will produce real outcomes,” Epelle said.

He also addressed ongoing concerns surrounding the 1% employment threshold for persons with disabilities in Delta State’s domesticated Disability Act, expressing optimism that the state government would soon initiate corrective legislative action.

“I believe the government has recognized that it was an error. We are advocating for it to be corrected, and I have information that proceedings may commence at the State House of Assembly. That will be a good start,” he added.

Epelle further emphasized transparency in the selection and distribution process, noting that beneficiaries were chosen without bias or favouritism.

“I don’t know anyone who received these items, and I don’t need to. What matters is that people who need them got them. This is about real empowerment, seeing lives touched,” he said.

Beyond the distribution of assistive devices, TAF Africa revealed plans to complement the initiative with entrepreneurship training, aimed at fostering economic independence among PWDs.

Delta State Project Coordinator for TAF Africa, Dr. Andrew Adaji, explained that mobility is central to broader inclusion efforts.

“For beneficiaries to participate effectively in entrepreneurship and other socio-economic activities, they need these assistive tools. This is why we prioritized mobility support,” Adaji noted.

He disclosed that the beneficiaries were identified in collaboration with local chapters of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), ensuring grassroots inclusion and credibility in the selection process.

Adaji also called on the Federal Government to strengthen enforcement of the Disability Act nationwide, stressing that full implementation would significantly improve accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

In his remarks, Delta State Chairman of JONAPWD, Earnest Igbuzor, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful.

“These devices will greatly ease movement and improve daily living for our members. TAF Africa has once again amplified the voices of persons with disabilities and demonstrated true commitment to inclusion,” he said.

Beneficiaries, many of whom expressed deep gratitude, described the intervention as life-changing. For several recipients, the assistive devices represent more than mobility; they symbolize dignity, independence, and renewed hope.

One beneficiary noted that the support would significantly reduce dependence on others and enable more active participation in daily and economic activities.

The D-RAPID Project, a three-year initiative, continues to position Delta State as a focal point for disability inclusion advocacy in Nigeria, aligning with global calls for equal rights and opportunities for persons with disabilities.

As stakeholders intensify calls for stronger policy implementation and private sector involvement, initiatives like this underscore a growing shift; from rhetoric to real impact, in the journey toward an inclusive society.