A Zaria-based NGO, Arewa Youth Trust Foundation, on Saturday sensitised physically challenged persons on negative consequences of begging.
The foundation encouraged them to go to school or learn skills to become self reliant.
Speaking at the sensitisation rally in Zaria, Kaduna State, on Saturday, its Chief Executive, Alhaji Fahad Ahmed-Chikaji, said begging had became a menace in the society.
Ahmed-Chikaji, who is also the Kaduna State Gender Ambassador and Coordinator, Future Builders Foundation, advised them not to see their condition as a course but a challenge and blessing in disguise.
“I want to use this medium to inform you that Islamically, begging is not encouraged, rather Islam encourages Muslims to stand on their feet, therefore try to be educated or endeavour to learn a trade.
“Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said the hand that gives is always on top of the hand that receives, therefore, let us learn trades so that we can give out instead of waiting for others to give us.
“Begging degrades a person’s fame and dignity, it places him/her very low in the society. Be mindful of the fact that there is ability in disability.”
Ahmed-Chikaji also used the medium to educate them on the “right to vote and not fight campaign” toward a free, fair and successful polls in the forthcoming election.
“when you go back home, please preach vote not fight campaign to your people, this will go a long way in sustaining the prevailing peace in our domain.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the sensitisation programme drew participants from different segments of persons with disability from Zaria and Sabongari. (NAN)
