On Wednesday, the Rotary Club of Abuja, Maitama, presented an electric wheelchair valued at N1.5 million to Mr. Festus Aziken, a polio survivor, as part of its humanitarian efforts in the community. Aziken, who is employed at the General Hospital in Maitama and also works with the Hospital’s Management Board in Garki, contracted polio at the age of nine. For the past 32 years, he has been crawling due to the effects of the disease.
During the presentation event, the club’s President, Yusuf Ali, emphasized the importance of the wheelchair in adding value to society. He stated, “One of our big dreams is to lift those challenged as part of our avowed commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.” Ali further explained, “Today, we have pooled our resources to purchase a N1.5 million electric chair for Festus Emmanuel Aziken, a polio survivor who has been crawling for 32 years. He has never allowed adversity to kill his dreams. By this gesture, the Rotary Club of Abuja Maitama is adding sustainable value to his life.”
Ali also shared a conversation he had with Aziken the previous night, in which Aziken expressed how the electric chair would significantly aid his mobility, allowing him to fend for himself. “Yes, my arms are becoming weak as I age,” Aziken noted. Ali concluded by reminding everyone of their charitable obligations, stating, “We are all pencils in the hands of God.”
In response, Aziken reflected on his struggles over the past 32 years and expressed his gratitude to the club for the generous gift. He highlighted how the wheelchair would enhance his ability to move around and fulfill his responsibilities.
Comments are closed for this story.