In a heartening display of dedication to the economic empowerment of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Nigeria, Mr. David O. Anyaele, the Special Assistant on Persons with Disabilities to Governor Alex Otti of Abia State and Founder of the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), extended heartfelt commendations to the United States Consulate.
In press release signed by Tosin Aniramu, Program Assistant, Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), Anyaele, speaking at the 2024 Workers’ Day Celebration and Launch of Project TheseAbilities at the US Consulate in Lagos on Thursday, expressed gratitude to the US Government for their unwavering support towards initiatives aimed at promoting inclusion and employment opportunities for PWDs in Nigeria.
Acknowledging the pivotal role played by the US Consulate in championing initiatives that foster the inclusion and empowerment of vulnerable populations, Anyaele underscored the significance of partnerships with organizations like the CCD and Project Enable Africa.
He emphasized the shared commitment towards promoting economic prosperity and community resilience among PWDs, encapsulated in the launch of the TheseAbilities Project titled ‘Promoting Inclusive Economic Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities.’
“As we commemorate Workers’ Day 2024, it is with great enthusiasm that we launch the TheseAbilities Project,” stated Mr. Anyaele, represented by Ms. Florence Attah, Programme Officer at CCD. He highlighted the multifaceted challenges faced by PWDs in their pursuit of economic empowerment, ranging from societal prejudices to physical barriers in accessing infrastructure and resources. Anyaele urged concerted efforts to dismantle these barriers and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
The TheseAbilities Project, implemented in partnership with CCD and Project Enable Africa, aims to directly empower 70 entrepreneurs with disabilities in Edo and Abia States with business management skills, resources, and networking opportunities. Additionally, it seeks to strengthen the capacity of 70 civil society organizations and public institutions/agencies in both states to become disability-inclusive in their policies, programs, and processes. The project, funded through the 2023 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund of the US Government, aims to uplift individuals, particularly women and prospective entrepreneurs, by equipping them with the necessary tools to increase household revenues.
The event, graced by the Head of the United States Consulate General in Lagos, Will Stevens, and Adenike Oyetunde, the General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, among other dignitaries, highlighted the collective determination to advance the rights and opportunities of PWDs in Nigeria. Mr. Anyaele reiterated CCD’s commitment to collaborating with the private sector to facilitate greater access to economic opportunities for PWDs, underscoring the importance of fostering inclusive practices and meaningful partnerships.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Anyaele emphasized the potential for collective action to break barriers and create a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, can contribute and succeed.
As the TheseAbilities Project takes flight, it symbolizes a beacon of hope for PWDs in Nigeria, promising tangible opportunities for economic empowerment and community resilience. Through collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication, the journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society becomes increasingly attainable.
