In a strong demonstration of his administration’s commitment to inclusivity, Governor Alex Otti, OFR, of Abia State has assured that his government will continue to dismantle barriers hindering Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) from participating in leadership positions on equal footing with others.
Governor Otti made this pledge in his goodwill message on Tuesday as Abia joined Nigeria and the rest of the world in commemorating the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD). The day, themed “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” resonates deeply with the Governor’s vision of empowering PWDs and ensuring their active participation in governance and socio-economic development.
A Commitment to Breaking Barriers
“Today’s commemoration provides another opportunity for us to reflect on our efforts to ensure the well-being of Abians with disabilities and their full participation in the socio-economic development of our state,” Governor Otti stated.
Highlighting the importance of inclusion, he reiterated his administration’s mission to reduce the incidence of disability in Abia through targeted investments in education, healthcare, and accessible infrastructure. According to the Governor, the Abia State Disability Law remains the guiding framework for ensuring equity and inclusion for PWDs in the state.
Leadership for an Inclusive Future
Governor Otti lauded the 2024 IDPD theme, emphasizing its alignment with his campaign manifesto and the broader vision of his administration to create leadership opportunities for PWDs.
“At the last count, six persons with disabilities have been appointed to leadership positions by our government. Additionally, all members of the Abia State Disability Commission are persons with disabilities,” the Governor announced proudly.
He stressed that this approach underscores his administration’s belief in the mantra: “Nothing about persons with disabilities without persons with disabilities.” By appointing PWDs to key leadership roles, Governor Otti is ensuring that the voices of this marginalized group are amplified and integrated into decision-making processes that directly impact their lives.
Ending Discrimination and Stigma
The Governor used the occasion to reiterate his administration’s zero tolerance for any form of discrimination, stigma, or exclusion based on disability. “We say no to all forms of discrimination, stigma, and isolation of Abians by reason of disability,” he declared, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fostering a society where every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute to the state’s development.
PWDs Driving Socio-Economic Development in Abia
Governor Otti’s administration has taken a proactive approach to positioning PWDs as key stakeholders in Abia’s development. He underscored the critical role PWDs play in advancing the state’s socio-economic agenda, noting that empowering this demographic is essential for building an inclusive and sustainable future.
“Our commitment is not just about providing opportunities but also about building the leadership capacity and capabilities of persons with disabilities. We are determined to integrate them into every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life,” the Governor said.
A Government Dedicated to Accessibility and Inclusion
Governor Otti detailed several measures his administration has undertaken to improve the lives of PWDs in Abia, including the provision of accessible services and infrastructure. He assured that these efforts would be sustained and expanded as his government continues to prioritize the welfare and development of PWDs.
A Call for Collective Action
In a statement issued by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities, Mr. David Anyaele, who also serves as the Chairman of the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, the Governor extended warm wishes to all Abians as they celebrated the IDPD.
Governor Otti called on all stakeholders to join hands with his administration in fostering a society where PWDs are not only seen but heard, respected, and empowered to lead.
“Abia State is poised to demonstrate to the world that in restoring our glory and making Abia truly God’s Own State, persons with disabilities will continue to play a pivotal leadership role in addressing issues that affect them,” the Governor affirmed.
Hope for a More Inclusive Abia
As the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated globally, Governor Otti’s commitment sends a strong message of hope and determination. His administration’s strides in promoting disability inclusion have positioned Abia State as a model for other states in Nigeria, reaffirming that true progress can only be achieved when no one is left behind.
With this renewed focus on breaking barriers and amplifying the leadership of PWDs, Abia State is charting a path toward a future where inclusivity is not just an ideal but a lived reality.
