By joshua 
‘RECREATE ABILITY IN DISABILITY’ – DON CHARGES PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AT ADE-BADA FOUNDATION LECTURE
… Foundation founder pledges bill to protect dignity of persons with disabilities in Kogi
People living with disabilities have been urged to discover their God-given talents and transform them into productive ventures rather than depend on others for survival.
The Provost of the College of Education, Ankpa, Dr. Fashagba Paul-Femi, gave the charge on Friday at the 2nd Biennial Lecture, Award Investiture, and Empowerment Fundraising of the Ade-Bada Foundation International held in Lokoja.
Dr. Fashagba, who was also honoured with the Outstanding Humanitarian Award at the event, said the Ade-Bada Foundation has consistently proven that physical limitation is not a barrier to making meaningful impact in society.
“Adebada has demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt that there is ability even in disability. He has not allowed his sight impairment to define or limit him. Instead, he has conquered his fears and turned them into a productive enterprise for the benefit of society,” he said.
The Provost cited Pastor Adeniyi Ezekiel Bada’s authorship as a powerful example, noting that “Adebada, despite his visual impairment, has authored books that many able-bodied scholars have not. His writings have inspired and encouraged people to convert their disabilities into opportunities for growth and self-reliance.”
He advised individuals facing various challenges to shift their focus from limitation to possibility, stressing that initiative and determination should govern their outlook on life. He also called on those who resort to begging due to their condition to emulate Adebada’s example and harness their innate abilities for self-sustenance.
In his remarks, the Founder of Ade-Bada Foundation International, Pastor Adeniyi Ezekiel Bada, said the organisation was established to help persons with special needs unlock their potential and contribute positively to their communities.
“Our concept is to help special citizens bring out and ignite their innate abilities to transform their lives and the world around them. They should be encouraged to make the best use of their lives instead of becoming over-dependent on others or a burden to society,” he said.
Pastor Bada condemned the use of derogatory terms such as “disabled,” urging Nigerians to change the narrative and accord persons with special needs the respect they deserve. He announced plans to sponsor a bill at the Kogi State House of Assembly to promote dignity and inclusion for the community.
He commended the President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Alhassan Yahaya, for attending the occasion despite his tight schedule, and thanked all awardees for their consistent support.
The 2nd Biennial Lecture brought together stakeholders, civil society groups, and members of the disability community to reinforce the message that ability transcends physical form.