Governor Assures No One Will Be Left Behind
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance with a pledge to establish the Enugu State Disabilities Commission in 2025. This landmark announcement, made during a town hall meeting in the state capital, underscores the governor’s dedication to ensuring that every resident, regardless of ability, is integrated into the state’s developmental agenda.
In his remarks, Governor Mbah highlighted the challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to address these issues through sustainable policies and targeted interventions. He described the forthcoming commission as a pivotal step toward promoting equality, accessibility, and opportunity for PWDs across the state.
“We have already domesticated the Disability Act, and we now have the Enugu State Disabilities Law. I am pleased to announce that we will establish the Enugu State Commission for Persons with Disabilities in the first quarter of 2025,” Mbah declared to resounding applause.
Empowering Persons with Disabilities Through Law and Action
The Disabilities Commission, according to the governor, will serve as a platform for advancing the rights, welfare, and inclusion of persons with disabilities. It will provide a framework for implementing the Enugu State Disabilities Law, which was enacted to protect the rights of PWDs and ensure their access to education, healthcare, employment, and public infrastructure.
Governor Mbah stressed that his administration’s approach goes beyond policy frameworks to practical actions that will improve the lives of PWDs. He emphasized that inclusivity is a cornerstone of his governance philosophy, vowing to leave no one behind.
“Our commitment to inclusivity is unwavering. This is about creating a state where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive. The Disabilities Commission will help us address the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities and ensure that their voices are not only heard but acted upon,” he stated.
A Timely Intervention for Marginalized Communities
The establishment of the Disabilities Commission is particularly significant for the disability community in Enugu State, where many PWDs continue to grapple with systemic barriers and societal discrimination. For years, advocates have called for a body that would institutionalize the protection of their rights and streamline support services.
With the commission now on the horizon, disability advocates and community members have expressed hope that the initiative will bring tangible change.
“This is a long-overdue intervention. The establishment of a Disabilities Commission will help address issues like inaccessible public spaces, lack of inclusive education, and discrimination in the workplace. It’s a step in the right direction,” said a disability rights activist based in Enugu.
Building an Inclusive Society
Governor Mbah’s administration has repeatedly emphasized its inclusive development model, which prioritizes social equity and fairness. The governor noted that the Disabilities Commission aligns with broader efforts to create a society where no one is left out of progress, especially the most vulnerable.
The governor’s recent strides in governance—including improvements in water supply, healthcare, and infrastructure—reflect a broader vision of development that includes everyone. The planned commission will further complement these efforts by addressing the specific needs of PWDs.
Commitment Beyond Words
Governor Mbah’s announcement builds on a series of initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity in Enugu State. Earlier in his administration, he launched programs to improve accessibility in schools, public buildings, and transportation systems. The Disabilities Commission will consolidate these efforts, providing a dedicated body to oversee the implementation of inclusive policies and ensure accountability.
The governor also urged all stakeholders, including private sector actors and civil society organizations, to join hands with the government in creating an enabling environment for persons with disabilities.
“This is not just the responsibility of government. We all have a role to play in building a society where everyone is valued and supported. Together, we can create a state where disabilities are not seen as limitations but as opportunities for greater innovation and collaboration,” Mbah said.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As preparations for the Disabilities Commission get underway, the governor has promised regular engagement with the disability community to ensure their input shapes the commission’s structure and operations. He also assured that the commission would be fully operational by the first quarter of 2025.
“We are committed to delivering on this promise, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that the Disabilities Commission is not just a ceremonial body but a functional institution that makes a real difference in the lives of our people,” Mbah pledged.
A Future of Inclusivity and Hope
Governor Mbah’s plan to launch the Enugu State Disabilities Commission is a beacon of hope for persons with disabilities in the state and beyond. It signals a shift toward a more inclusive and equitable society, where everyone—regardless of ability—can contribute to and benefit from development.
As the first quarter of 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on the Enugu State Government to deliver on this transformative promise. If fully realized, the Disabilities Commission will not only uplift the disability community but also set a benchmark for other states in Nigeria, reaffirming Enugu’s position as a leader in inclusive governance.
