The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, on Monday, lauded the Sir David Osunde Foundation (SDOF) for its 33 years of dedicated service to persons with disabilities, and urged Nigerians to follow the foundation’s lead in complementing government efforts.

It urged Nigerians to emulate the Sir David Osunde Foundation’s humanitarian example, emphasising that the government alone cannot tackle the nation’s challenges.

Kaigama disclosed this in Abuja during the 33rd Sir David Osunde Foundation (SDOF) annual Thanksgiving celebration for persons with disabilities.

He said: “As I went around, I could see people from all parts of Abuja and other places. And as we are celebrating here, there is a celebration going on in Benin City. So you can see it’s touching lives.

“They are touching lives positively. If everyone just did something similar, we wouldn’t even need a lot from the government. The individuals can do so much for every needy person in society. Individuals must do their part, and then the government must complement.

“Because it is their duty to look after all these people. So we are happy, 33 years of active performance, positive performance, and great achievement. So we say congratulations to Sir David Osunde Foundation.”

In his remarks, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Barrister Ikem Uchegbulam, announced plans to expand SDOF’s vocational training programs in partnership with local artisans and trade schools.

He said, “Today’s gathering is more than a ceremony, it is a testament to community solidarity. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and volunteers, many recipients have new wheelchairs, hearing aids, and educational grants.”

Also speaking at event, former Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Pauline Tallen, also commended the foundation’s enduring commitment to the physically challenged.

“The Osunde Foundation has done so much to put smiles on the faces of the physically challenged in this country and abroad,” she said.

Tallen highlighted the foundation’s provision of scholarships and support for education, praying for its continued strength to carry out its mission.

Speaking on behalf of beneficiaries, Mr. Adamu Isa of Abaji Area Council expressed gratitude for the foundation’s support, which he said enables recipients not only to meet their own needs but also to assist others.

He said: “Whatever we are having from the foundation, we use it to help other people and also change our source of movement. When it comes, we share it equally and distribute it into this area council. It has helped us a lot.”

Isa offered prayers for the foundation, asking for divine grace to sustain its work.