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Abia State Celebrates Disability Inclusion, Hails Governor Otti’s Leadership on Abia Disability Day

Umuahia, Abia State – February 2025

In a landmark celebration of inclusivity, Abia State has once again demonstrated its commitment to the welfare of its disabled community, as Mr. David Anyaele, Chairman of the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, praised the significant efforts made under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti. The occasion, which marked the annual Abia Disability Day, was centered around the theme “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive Sustainable Future.”

The event, a blend of awareness, celebration, and action, began with a spirited street walk through the heart of Umuahia, as thousands of participants marched together in solidarity for disability rights. The walk, a powerful symbol of unity, culminated at the Kolping Society of Nigeria, where an interactive session took place, highlighting the progress and accomplishments of Abians with disabilities over the last two decades.

A Legacy of Progress Under Governor Otti’s Leadership

Mr. Anyaele, who serves not only as the Chairman of the Commission but also as Special Adviser to Governor Otti on disability matters, took center stage at the celebration to underscore the impressive strides made by the state in advancing the rights and well-being of people living with disabilities. Reflecting on the past 20 months of Governor Otti’s tenure, Anyaele spoke passionately about the increased recognition of Abia’s disabled citizens both nationally and internationally.

“Under Governor Otti’s leadership, Abia State has made remarkable progress. Our people with disabilities are no longer marginalized or sidelined but are being recognized on the global stage,” Anyaele said, citing prominent Abians like Dr. Chris Nwanoro, a representative at the United Nations, and Dr. Chidi Oluchie, who now leads the West African Federation of the Deaf. These notable figures, according to Anyaele, are testament to the transformation taking place in Abia State’s disability community.

The event also celebrated the exceptional achievements of Abian athletes in the recent Paralympics, including the stellar performances of gold medalist Onyinyechi and silver medalist Esther. Their achievements were a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within every individual, regardless of physical ability.

Governor Otti’s Unwavering Commitment

Governor Alex Otti’s unwavering commitment to the disability community was further underscored during the celebration, particularly through his message delivered in his New Year address. Anyaele pointed to the establishment of the South East Zonal Office of the National Disability Commission in Umuahia as a key milestone in providing tangible support for disabled individuals. The office, which is expected to serve as a hub for advocacy and assistance, marks a major step in ensuring that persons with disabilities in Abia have the resources and support needed to thrive.

“Governor Otti has not only spoken about change, he has enacted it,” Anyaele noted, adding that the administration has created policies that are disability-inclusive and are already reshaping the state’s approach to social welfare.

Breaking Barriers: Advocating for Inclusion and Equal Opportunity

Throughout the event, Anyaele made a heartfelt call to remove the societal barriers that have long hindered the full participation of disabled individuals in various aspects of life. These barriers, he said, include inadequate infrastructure, limited access to education, and outdated institutional processes that do not account for the needs of persons with disabilities.

“True inclusion goes beyond words. It requires concrete actions, from accessible transportation to ensuring that public buildings are disability-friendly,” Anyaele urged. “We need to build a society that does not just accommodate but embraces its disabled members.”

He also called on families, communities, and society at large to eliminate discrimination and stigma, urging them to recognize that disabilities do not define a person’s capabilities.

Empowerment and Progress: A New Era for Disabled Abians

A key moment in the day’s events was the panel discussion, where Mrs. Blessing Felix, the Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, revealed a major shift in the state’s approach to empowerment programs. According to Mrs. Felix, a significant portion of Abia’s empowerment initiatives is now earmarked for disabled persons. This is in line with the administration’s broader goal of fostering economic independence and sustainable livelihoods for all Abians, irrespective of ability.

“Governor Otti’s disability-friendly policies are not just about recognition; they are about making real, measurable changes in the lives of people with disabilities,” Mrs. Felix said, praising the governor for ushering in a new era of empowerment for the disabled community.

The celebration also saw contributions from other key figures, including Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, and various representatives from the health sector. These leaders echoed the shared vision of an inclusive Abia, highlighting their respective departments’ ongoing efforts to provide access to education, healthcare, and social welfare for persons with disabilities.

Building an Inclusive Society for All

The day’s events, while celebratory, were also a powerful reminder that there is still much work to be done. While significant progress has been made under Governor Otti’s leadership, the call for further inclusion and a society where persons with disabilities can thrive is ongoing.

As the event concluded, the collective commitment of Abia’s leadership was palpable. This marked not just a celebration of achievements, but a renewed pledge to dismantle the barriers that continue to obstruct the full participation of disabled individuals in every sphere of life.

The Abia Disability Day event was a resounding success, underscoring the importance of unity, advocacy, and government action in building an inclusive society. With Governor Otti at the helm, the future looks bright for persons with disabilities in Abia, as the state continues its journey toward true inclusivity and equality for all.

This year’s celebration wasn’t just a day to look back at achievements but a call to action for the entire state to continue to break down the walls of exclusion and build a society where every Abian can fully realize their potential.

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