Physically Disabled, Not Intellectually Impaired – Adamawa Disabled Youth Network Urges Govt for Inclusive Governance
By Ojoma Yusuf,Yola
The Adamawa Youth Disabled Network (AYDN), a coalition of over 100 educated youths living with physical disabilities, has called on the Adamawa State Government to adopt a more inclusive approach in governance, particularly in employment and policy-making processes.
Speaking on behalf of the group, AYDN Chairman, Mr. Billy Henry, emphasized that while they may face physical limitations, their intellectual capabilities remain intact — and in many cases, exceptional.
“We are only physically challenged, not mentally or intellectually impaired,” he said in an interview. “We want to contribute meaningfully to society, and all we ask for is an equal opportunity to prove ourselves.”
Mr. Henry, a graduate of Christian Religious Studies and History Education, shared his personal story of resilience. Married with two children, he also works as a farmer.
“I plant and harvest crops myself. I clear the farm and take my produce home just like anyone else. We are not lazy. We are simply asking the government to give us a chance to showcase our talents,” he said.
The call comes amid an ongoing civil service recruitment exercise in Adamawa State. Many AYDN members applied for positions but fear systemic discrimination might once again leave them sidelined.
Miss Penina Oliver, a visually impaired graduate of Christian Religious Studies and English, lamented years of rejection in the job market due to her disability.
“I’ve applied for countless jobs, and every time they realize I am visually impaired, I get denied,” she said. “We are smart. We may not see, but our brains function just fine. The government should recognize this and ensure we are fairly represented in the new recruitment process.”
AYDN Secretary, Mr. Kelvin Kefas, also shared his experience. A poultry farmer and graduate, he said he used his income from raising and selling birds to sponsor his education.
“We went through the same struggles in school as every other person. Our exams were the same. We had no special privileges,” Kefas said. “Yet, when it comes to employment, we’re forced to struggle twice as hard just to be considered.”
He added: “Society often views us as liabilities, but if given the chance, we can outperform even able-bodied people in many areas.”
The group urged the Fintiri-led government to match its rhetoric on inclusion with concrete action by prioritizing the inclusion of persons with disabilities in employment, policymaking, and governance at all levels.
“All we ask is to be treated as equals,” said Mr. Henry. “We have the skills, the education, and the drive. We are not asking for pity—we are asking for opportunity.”
The Adamawa Youth Disabled Network reiterated that disability is not inability, and called for immediate policy reforms to ensure that qualified persons with disabilities are not left behind in the state’s development plans.
