In a remarkable step toward strengthening disability-inclusive governance at the grassroots, the Abia State Disability Commission convened a Townhall Meeting with Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Ikwuano Local Government Area (LGA), Abia State. The event, which brought together stakeholders, government officials, and the disability community, underscored the state government’s growing commitment to ensuring no one is left behind.
The meeting was graced by the Executive Mayor of Ikwuano LGA, Hon. Dr. Anthony Nwaubani, who attended alongside disability rights advocate and Commission representative. The gathering was designed to amplify the voices of PWDs, address their pressing needs, and explore pathways for economic empowerment through collective initiatives.
PWDs Demand Palm Oil Processing Machine for Livelihood Support
One of the strongest appeals from the disability community in Ikwuano LGA was for the provision of a Palm Oil Processing Machine. According to representatives of the group, this project would empower members economically, enabling them to run a profitable venture that could sustain their families and improve their standard of living.
Speaking at the event, The Chairman of the Abia State Disability Commission, David Anyaele urged PWDs in Ikwuano to embrace the power of Cooperative Societies (CS). He emphasized that belonging to a cooperative provides members with economic leverage, social inclusion, and personal growth, while fostering operational efficiency and sustainability.
“Cooperatives give stakeholders a sense of ownership and responsibility, strengthening their commitment and ensuring that initiatives endure,” he noted.
Mayor Nwaubani’s Disability-Inclusive Commitment
In his response, Hon. Dr. Anthony Nwaubani demonstrated a strong commitment to disability inclusion, highlighting measures already underway in Ikwuano LGA. He revealed that:
- He has appointed a Special Assistant on Persons with Disabilities, ensuring that disability issues are directly addressed within the local government.
- The new office block under construction in the LGA will feature a ramp from the ground floor to the second floor. Present at the meeting, the project engineer explained that assistive features were being fully integrated into the building’s design.
- He expressed keen interest in the Palm Oil Processing initiative, pledging to support the registration of the Cooperative Society and ensure the establishment of the machine for PWDs.
These commitments received applause from participants, who described them as “life-changing” and a sign of genuine leadership.
A Broader Push for Inclusion
The townhall in Ikwuano marks the 7th in a series of such engagements organized by the Abia State Disability Commission across the state. These meetings are part of a deliberate strategy to enhance PWD inclusion and participation in governance at the community level.
The Commission’s boss, David Anyaele praised the Abia State Governor, H.E. Dr. Alex C. Otti (OFR), for his transformative leadership and unwavering support for disability-inclusive policies.
“Governor Otti is showing by example that disability inclusion is not just a promise but a lived reality in Abia State. It is heartwarming to see our LGA Mayors walking in his footsteps,” he remarked.
Notable Dignitaries Present
Other dignitaries in attendance included Hon. Stanley Onyebuchi, Hon. Ijeoma Okoronkwo, and Hon. Emenike Amakwe, who commended the Disability Commission for bridging the gap between government and marginalized groups.
Looking Ahead
As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was charged with optimism. With the pledges made and the unwavering determination of PWDs in Ikwuano, the vision of economic empowerment and social inclusion seems within reach.
The event not only showcased the resilience of Abia State’s disability community but also reinforced the message that the future of Abia is inclusive, progressive, and bright.
Follow the The Qualitative Magazine channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VanfIB50wajpjGi3JJ1G
