The Leprosy and Tuberculosis Relief Nigeria has trained and empowered 25 persons affected by leprosy with vocational skills to promote self-reliance and reduce stigma in Plateau State.
The initiative, tagged “Breaking Stigma Through Building Stories,” focused on equipping beneficiaries with practical skills such as shoe making, bag production, belt crafting, photography, and cinematography.
The programme, funded by the Virtutis Opus Foundation through the Netherlands Leprosy Relief, also featured an exhibition of products made by the beneficiaries.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Administration, Naomi Idako, who represented the Executive Director of LTR, Dr. Tahir Dahiru, said the project was designed to restore dignity and create opportunities for persons affected by leprosy.
She noted that the initiative goes beyond skills acquisition, adding that it aims to change negative perceptions and highlight the potential of beneficiaries.
According to her, the products displayed at the exhibition reflect resilience, courage, and the ability of the beneficiaries to overcome societal barriers.
The Plateau State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, who represented the state governor, described the programme as impactful and life-changing.
He said the beneficiaries were already applying the skills to support their families and improve their livelihoods.
Baamlong also stressed the need to end discrimination against persons affected by leprosy, noting that the condition should not be a basis for exclusion.
He announced a donation of N5m to support the sustainability of the beneficiaries’ businesses and assured continued government support.
A beneficiary, Markus Ali, expressed appreciation to the organisers and partners, saying the programme had restored hope and confidence among participants.
He added that the training had given them a new sense of purpose and the ability to provide for themselves.
The event also featured cultural performances and a documentary highlighting the transformation of the beneficiaries, as stakeholders reiterated the need to promote inclusion and end stigma in society.