A pivotal meeting convened at the Udung Uko Council Hall between the transition Chairman and members of the disability community marked a significant milestone in addressing the pressing issues faced by persons with disabilities in the area. The presence of the Special Assistant to the Governor underscored the importance of the gathering, highlighting the commitment of His Excellency, Governor Pastor Umo Eno, to providing a platform for discussing crucial matters specific to persons with disabilities.
During the meeting, the Governor’s aide stressed the imperative of inclusion within the Council and advocated for political appointments to be made for persons with disabilities. She emphasized the need for designated office spaces for appointees to effectively carry out their duties. Additionally, she shed light on the concerning fact that a significant portion of individuals listed as persons with disabilities in the social register may not actually be disabled. This revelation prompted a call for adjustments to ensure equitable distribution of resources, particularly free food allocations, to the genuine disability community in the State.
In furtherance of efforts to empower persons with disabilities, the Governor’s aide proposed rehabilitation programs aimed at fostering economic independence within the disability community. Recognizing grassroots engagement as integral to empowerment, she underscored the importance of addressing the socio-economic needs of disabled individuals.
In response to these proposals, the transition Chairman commended Governor Umo Eno for his compassionate stance towards disabled individuals and expressed gratitude to the Special Assistant for her unwavering commitment to promoting inclusivity across all sectors. He announced plans to establish a dedicated office within the council specifically tailored to cater to the needs of Persons with Disabilities. Furthermore, he pledged support for rehabilitation initiatives targeting beneficiaries across the five clusters of disabilities in the State.
In a demonstration of his administration’s dedication to inclusivity, the transition Chairman appointed a person with a disability as his special assistant, eliciting applause and appreciation from attendees.
The meeting garnered significant participation from members of the transition committee, Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Special Assistant to the Governor, and other key stakeholders in the disability community. The constructive discussions and decisions made during the session are poised to positively impact the lives of persons with disabilities in Udung Uko and beyond. The proactive measures taken by the government reflect a concerted effort to address the needs of this marginalized community and ensure their full integration and empowerment within society.
Mrs. Nnene Bassey, Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities, reiterated her commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, heralding a new era of inclusivity and opportunity in Udung Uko.
