In a move to promote inclusion and disability rights, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State has appointed Yusuf Kumo, a 29-year-old deaf political science graduate, as a member of the Gombe State Disability Commission.
Contained in an appointment letter addressed to Kumo obtained by Arewa PUNCH and dated 24th December, 2024 which was signed by the Secretary to Government of Gombe State Professor Ibrahim Njodi, Kumo was appointed as a part-time member of the board.
The letter partly read, “I am directed to convey the approval of His Excellency Muhammada Inuwa Yahaya CON (Dan Majen Gombe). The Governor of Gombe State on your appointment Part Time Member, Gombe State Disability Commission.
“The appointment is informed by your achievements, experience, commitment to service, and loyalty. I hope you will bring all these qualities to bear in the discharge of the duties of your new office.
“The appointment is at the pleasure of the governor and may be terminated any time he deems it fit.
“Your salary/allowances and entitlements are as spelt out in the instrument establishing the Gombe State Disability Commission and/or the conditions of service applicable to the organisation.”
ArewaTodayPriceNG reports that Kumo, in an earlier interview, had disclosed that he became deaf at the age of 10 years after receiving 30 injections while treating meningitis.
Speaking in an exclusive chat with our correspondent, Yusuf Kumo expressed his commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
He said, “I wish to bring a wealth of experience and dedication to this role.
“Having served with the Bauchi State Agency for Persons with Disabilities during my NYSC, I have firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities within the disability community.
“As a comrade, advocate of inclusion, and mobilizer with strong PR skills, I’m committed to working as a team with the Executive Chairman, Dr. Ishiyaku Adamu, and other appointees to promote the rights, welfare, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
“My focus is on creating sustainable empowerment opportunities that will reduce dependence and disabled begging, ensuring that persons with disabilities can thrive independently. With my background in political science and ICT, I bring a strategic and modern approach to advocacy, communication, and policy implementation.”
Kumo, who represents Gombe Central on the board, pointed out that his experience in mobilization and public relations will be valuable in fostering partnerships, raising awareness, and driving impactful initiatives that promote the positive image of the government and its commitment to inclusivity.
“Through teamwork, advocacy, and policy-driven initiatives, we will make meaningful progress toward an inclusive society where persons with disabilities have equal access to opportunities and can contribute to national development,” Kumo added.
Speaking further, he hailed Governor Yahaya for his inclusion program, adding, “I must commend Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, (Dan Majen Gombe) for ensuring the inclusion of youth, women, and PWDs. May God bless him for being fair to all.”
