Enugu, Nigeria
In a passionate call for equity and representation, the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Enugu State chapter, has urged Governor Peter Mbah to take decisive steps in mainstreaming disability inclusion into the governance architecture of the state.
Speaking through a statement released in Enugu on Thursday, JONAPWD State Chairman, Onyebuchi Mba, appealed to the governor to prioritize the needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and fulfill his campaign promise of establishing the Enugu State Disability Commission.
“Disability Inclusion Can’t Wait Anymore”
“We are calling on His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, to fulfill his promise of establishing the Enugu State Disability Commission,” Mba declared in the statement. “Despite the governor’s transformative leadership and commitment to inclusivity, persons with disabilities continue to face socio-economic challenges and systemic exclusion.”
The appeal is more than a request—it is a reminder that disability rights are human rights, and inclusive governance must translate to policies, institutions, and structures that serve all citizens equally, especially those historically left behind.
JONAPWD, a recognized umbrella body representing the interests of all persons with disabilities in Nigeria, has been at the forefront of advocacy efforts across the country, pushing for the domestication and implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act at the state level.
A Call for Structures, Not Sympathy
Mba stressed that while words of support and public gestures are appreciated, PWDs in Enugu State need lasting, institutional change.
“What we are asking for is not sympathy. We are demanding structures that guarantee our rights, dignity, and participation in governance. An independent and well-funded Enugu State Disability Commission will go a long way in achieving this,” he emphasized.
According to him, PWDs in Enugu still struggle with inaccessible public buildings, lack of representation in governance, high unemployment rates, and limited access to quality education and healthcare.
These challenges, he noted, persist despite the governor’s clear reputation for reform and innovation in leadership, indicating that a gap remains between intent and implementation when it comes to disability matters.
Inclusion is Development
JONAPWD’s position aligns with global best practices and Nigeria’s own policy framework, which recognizes inclusive governance as essential for sustainable development. Without mainstreaming the voices and needs of PWDs, no society can claim to be truly democratic or equitable.
The appeal also highlights the importance of representation. “Persons with disabilities must be given a seat at the table—not as token figures, but as full participants in policymaking, program implementation, and monitoring,” Mba added.
Citizens Can Drive Change
In a show of optimism and unity, the chairman called on the people of Enugu State to stand in solidarity with the disability community. “With the citizens’ support, we can bring about positive change and ensure that the rights of persons with disabilities are protected.”
He also encouraged civil society organizations, media practitioners, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to join the advocacy, emphasizing that inclusion is a shared responsibility.
Hope on the Horizon
Governor Mbah has, in several public addresses, reiterated his administration’s vision for an inclusive and prosperous Enugu State. However, as JONAPWD and disability advocates point out, vision without execution leaves vulnerable communities behind.
The establishment of a State Disability Commission, promotion of accessible infrastructure, and equal representation in government boards and committees are not just policy recommendations—they are urgent imperatives for justice and equality.
Time for Action
As Enugu continues its journey toward progress and modernization, disability inclusion must not remain an afterthought. The opportunity to be a trailblazer in the South-East lies before the Mbah administration.
JONAPWD’s message is loud and clear: “Nothing about us, without us.” The time for action is now. Enugu cannot afford to leave any of its citizens behind.
Governor Mbah, the ball is in your court.
