By The Qualitative Magazine News Desk | October 13, 2025 | Umuahia, Abia State
In a heartfelt commendation, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has celebrated the third anniversary of the Abia State Disability Law, lauding Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti for his visionary leadership and deliberate efforts toward building an inclusive Abia where Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are empowered, represented, and respected.
The organization described the passage and implementation of the Abia State Disability Law as a “landmark achievement” that continues to inspire disability inclusion efforts across Nigeria. According to CCD, Abia State under Governor Otti has shown unprecedented commitment to ensuring that PWDs are not just recognized in law but also integrated meaningfully into the social, economic, and political fabric of the state.
A Milestone for Disability Rights in Abia
In its official statement signed by Mr. Godwin Unumeri, Acting Director of CCD, the group noted that the passage of the Abia State Disability Act remains one of the most progressive state-level disability legislations in Nigeria. The law, according to CCD, laid a solid foundation for advancing equality, accessibility, and inclusion — values that Governor Otti’s administration has actively translated into action.
CCD emphasized that while many states still struggle to operationalize their disability laws, Abia State has moved beyond mere legislation to practical implementation and institutional development. The state’s inclusive policies have significantly improved the lives of thousands of persons with disabilities, creating an enabling environment for them to thrive.
Inclusive Appointments and Empowerment Initiatives
One of the most notable achievements highlighted by CCD is the strategic inclusion of PWDs in key government positions, a move that ensures their voices are represented at decision-making tables. The appointment of Mr. David O. Anyaele, one of Nigeria’s most prominent disability rights advocates, as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities, was described as a “bold and visionary decision” that has greatly strengthened disability advocacy and inclusion in the state.
“The inclusion of PWDs in leadership roles clearly shows Governor Otti’s belief in the principle of ‘nothing about us without us’,” CCD stated, emphasizing that this model of governance should serve as a blueprint for other states across the federation.
Establishment of the Abia State Disability Commission
Another milestone celebrated by CCD is the prompt establishment of the Abia State Disability Commission, with Hon. David Obinna Anyaele appointed as its pioneer Chairman. The Commission, which includes other notable PWD leaders such as Mr. Stanley Onyebuchi, National President of the Nigeria Association of the Blind; Ms. Ijeoma Okoronkwo, a leader of persons with albinism; Mr. Emenike Amakwe; and the late Mrs. Chinenye Ogboso, was described as a testament to the Governor’s unwavering commitment to inclusive governance.
CCD praised the Commission’s work in advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, calling it “a shining example of how state governments can institutionalize inclusion and accountability.”
Regional Leadership Through NCPWD Zonal Office
The CCD also commended Governor Otti for his approval of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) South East Zonal Office in Umuahia. This strategic development not only strengthens Abia’s role as a regional hub for disability inclusion but also provides a platform for collaboration between state and federal institutions working to enhance the welfare of PWDs in Nigeria.
“By hosting the NCPWD South East Zonal Office, Abia State has positioned itself as a leader in advancing inclusive governance in the region,” the organization noted.
Call for Sustainability and Replication Across Nigeria
While applauding the remarkable progress made, CCD urged the Governor to sustain and expand these achievements by ensuring continuous budgetary support for the Disability Commission and mainstreaming accessibility standards across all ministries, departments, and agencies in the state.
The organization also called on other state governors to emulate Governor Otti’s example by establishing and adequately funding their own disability commissions. According to CCD, the promotion of inclusive governance, para-sports, and disability-responsive budgeting can unlock the full potential of PWDs and contribute to Nigeria’s overall development.
CCD’s Role in Advancing Disability Rights
Founded as one of Nigeria’s foremost advocacy organizations for PWDs, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has been at the forefront of promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities across the country. Over the years, CCD has successfully led campaigns for the passage and assent of critical legislations such as the Lagos State Special Peoples’ Law (2010), the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act (2018), and the Abia State Commission for Disabled Persons Law (2022).
Beyond legislation, CCD continues to implement transformative projects in Abia State and across Nigeria. These include initiatives focused on disability-inclusive climate change adaptation, inclusive benefit-sharing in the Niger Delta, and disability-responsive environmental governance—ensuring that PWDs are not left behind in national development and climate action efforts.
A Beacon of Hope for Inclusion
As CCD celebrates this milestone, the organization reaffirmed its readiness to continue partnering with the Abia State Government to deepen disability inclusion and build a society where every citizen, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully.
Abia State’s journey toward inclusion, spearheaded by Governor Alex Otti, is a model of progressive governance, and as CCD aptly concluded, “It is a reminder that when leaders commit to inclusion, they empower not just a group, but an entire society.”
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