Barthiya becomes the first physically challenged person to be elected leader of a legislature, a key fulcrum of government.

Though he was not born with a disability, Barthiya survived a crash earlier in life that left him with one of his arms amputated.

The UN Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities in its 61st session of the General assembly by resolution A/RES/61/106 states the criteria that establish disability

It says persons with disabilities include those who have long term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments, which, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.

Hon. Barthiya, a second term lawmaker elected under the Peoples Democratic Party, takes over as Speaker of the 8th Assembly from Hon. Aminu Iya-Abass following his elevation as Senator representing Adamawa Central Zone in the National Assembly.