Rev. Tor Uja, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), said on Wednesday that the commission would begin a special pilgrimage for People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) in 2018.

Uja made this known when he met with the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Disability Matters, Dr Samuel Ankeli in Abuja.

The executive secretary emphasised the roles of government and the church in tackling the challenges facing persons living with disabilities, saying that the church has a bigger role to play.

He called on the Church to draw out an outreach programme for this vulnerable group within the country.

According to Uja, the commission is currently organising pilgrimage for the senior citizens.

He advised the senior special assistant to put his team together and interface with the Commission for mutual benefits.

“We have a programme for the aged people as well; with us you have a partnership.” Uja said.

Earlier, Ankeli had said that there were about 25 million Nigerians living with different disabilities.

He held the view that the rights of persons living with disabilities are being violated, saying that they should be allowed to occupy positions of relevance in the scheme of things.

He called for the establishment of a commission for persons living with disabilities, saying a bill is before the National Assembly to that effect.

“I have come to this office to stimulate us so that persons living with disabilities can go on pilgrimage.

“I call on the church to break the barrier for anyone to access Christ.

“I am convinced that you will not leave this place the way you met it, considering your pedigree as an Evangelist.

“In doing our work, we have found it necessary to interface with relevant agencies. Your office is key to us.”

He thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for making Nigeria more disability friendly and congratulated Uja for his well-deserved appointment. (NAN)

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