The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State Chapter, has extended warm congratulations to the newly elected Local Government Area (LGA) Chairmen and Councillors across the state. In a press release issued by the association, the umbrella body representing all six disability clusters in Anambra commended the newly elected leaders for earning the trust of their constituents and securing these vital positions.
The association’s message was both a celebration of democratic progress and a call to action for inclusive governance. As the chairmen and councillors prepare to assume their roles, JONAPWD emphasized the importance of integrating persons with disabilities (PWDs) into the policymaking and governance structures at the grassroots level.
A Call for Inclusive Governance and Representation
Speaking on behalf of the association, JONAPWD’s State Chairman, Comrade Ugochukwu Ernest C. Okeke, highlighted the significance of inclusion in governance. “We urge the newly elected chairmen and councillors to ensure no one is left behind in their administration,” Okeke said. “This can be achieved by appointing persons with disabilities as Special Assistants on disability matters. Their experiences, insights, and first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by PWDs will serve as invaluable assets in policymaking and implementation.”
JONAPWD also drew attention to Section 52, Subsection 1 of the Anambra State Disability Rights Law, 2018, which mandates the promotion of political participation among persons with disabilities. The law encourages the active involvement of PWDs in public life and seeks to eliminate discrimination against them in all forms. Okeke emphasized that empowering individuals with disabilities through such appointments would reflect the new leaders’ commitment to equity, justice, and inclusive governance.
Inclusion: A Win for Communities
According to the association, involving PWDs in leadership roles is not merely about fulfilling legal obligations but also a pathway to building stronger, more inclusive communities. “The inclusion of PWDs brings unique perspectives to governance, ensuring that policies and decisions cater to all segments of the population,” Okeke noted. “We are optimistic that the new administration will embrace this opportunity to work with us in creating accessible and equitable communities.”
The association further stressed that empowering PWDs within local governments would result in impactful policies addressing issues such as accessible infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. This, in turn, would contribute to a more inclusive society where every citizen can thrive.
A History of Advocacy and Progress
JONAPWD Anambra has been at the forefront of advocacy for disability rights and inclusive governance, consistently pushing for the implementation of the Anambra State Disability Rights Law and meaningful representation for PWDs. The association’s leadership expressed optimism that the newly elected officials would build on these efforts by not only appointing PWDs as aides but also integrating disability-friendly policies into their developmental agendas.
Hope for a New Era of Leadership
JONAPWD’s call comes at a critical time when local governments are expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring sustainable development across communities. “The election of these leaders presents a unique opportunity to reshape governance at the grassroots level and foster social inclusion,” Okeke added.
The association expressed confidence that the newly elected chairmen and councillors have the capacity to deliver positive change. Okeke also affirmed JONAPWD’s readiness to collaborate with the new administration in areas such as advocacy, policy formulation, and monitoring of disability-related projects. “We look forward to working closely with these leaders to create communities where every citizen, regardless of ability, can participate fully and thrive,” he said.
A Positive Step Toward Disability-Inclusive Governance
As the new chairmen and councillors prepare to assume office, JONAPWD Anambra emphasized that the time is now for action on disability inclusion. The association expressed hope that through collaborative efforts, the state would take significant steps toward creating accessible and inclusive local governments.
JONAPWD concluded the press release with words of encouragement for the new officials, urging them to uphold the principles of good governance and inclusivity. “Your election is not just a personal achievement but a responsibility to uplift every member of your community, including persons with disabilities,” Okeke stated. “Together, we can build a better, more inclusive Anambra.”
With these words, the association set a hopeful tone for the incoming administration, laying the foundation for a partnership that could redefine grassroots governance in Anambra State.
