In continuation of her decade-long Ramadan and Lent tradition, Dr. Betta Edu over the weekend broke fast with over 1,500 physically challenged men, women, and children of Muslim and Christian faiths in the Karonmajigi community, behind the National Military Cemetery, Abuja.
The programme, which began in Bogobiri and Nasarawa Bakoko, Calabar during her tenure as Director General of the Primary Healthcare Development Agency and later as Commissioner for Health in Cross River State, was held in March to pray for Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Recall that in 2025, Dr. Edu hosted the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, and his entourage for an iftar with Muslim communities in Calabar.
The dinner was also attended by the Acting Governor of Cross River State and the management of the University of Calabar, bringing Christians and Muslims together in Calabar around the same period last year.
During Dr. Edu visit, she met with visually impaired individuals and other persons with various disabilities resident in Karamajiji facing various challenges.
She was particularly moved when she saw beneficiaries of previous empowerment programmes,such as POS machines and vocational training with start-up support-still sustaining their businesses.
One of the beneficiaries, Alhaji Ibrahim Jubril, who is blind, said, “Dr. Betta, since you empowered us with the POS business on behalf of the President in 2023, that is what my family of 15 has survived on for over two years now. We pray that the government remembers persons living with disabilities again.”
“Seeing the seeds we sowed under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership still yielding fruits for families is profoundly encouraging,” Dr Betta said.
She called for increased support for physically challenged persons and emphasised the importance of education and healthcare for their children.
Dr. Edu also praised the local family health centre, encouraging its effective use to ensure children receive proper care and immunisations as when due.
The interfaith Lent and Iftar breaking of fast highlighted unity beyond religion, tribe, culture, and economic status.
Dr. Edu prayed for peace, development, and improved security conditions for all Nigerians; including families and children, especially those in IDP camps.
Secretary of Communities of Persons Living With Disabilities in the FCT, Muhammed Dantani, speaking on behalf of Emir of Karamajigi, Alhaji Suleiman Muhammed Katsina, expressed deep appreciation for Dr. Edu’s consistent support to the community, which he recall began in her days as a National Woman Leader of APC.
Community members further acknowledged her lasting impact through empowerment programmes, education, shelter, vocational training , and business start-ups.
Residents concluded with prayers for Dr. Edu’s continued success, protection, and long life, praising her for sharing joy, food, and hope with the Karonmajigi community.
