International Day of Persons With Disabilities: NDDC Empowers Imo Special Citizens

In celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) took a bold step towards fostering inclusivity by organising an empowerment programme in Imo State.

This initiative reaffirmed the government’s commitment to uplifting the lives of persons with disabilities, ensuring they are not left behind in national development efforts.

The event, which took place in Owerri, Imo State capital, had the theme “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.” It featured notable resource persons focusing on financial management, leadership skills, the importance of wellness and sports, and mental health.

In his address, the NDDC Imo State representative, Dr Kyrian Chidiebere Uchegbu, stated that the programme was organised to remind members of the Imo State Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) that they are not forgotten. He added that this gesture reflects the commission’s commitment to supporting special citizens.

Dr Uchegbu assured that the programme would be sustained as an annual event, with special citizens included in every empowerment initiative undertaken by the commission henceforth.

Imo State Chairman of JONAPWD, Barr C. U. Ekwelem Jr, expressed joy over the gesture extended to the JONAPWD community by the NDDC. He noted that special citizens in the state are known for their peaceful disposition and progress in various skills acquisitions, emphasising that Imo’s special citizens do not engage in begging.

He called on the government and corporate bodies to support the group in becoming more self-reliant, noting that not all members can be integrated into government systems. He also advocated for partnerships with the NDDC in various engagements.

Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Citizens, Dr Samuelson Emehibe, described the event as a well-organised programme by the NDDC. He added that the programme marked a positive beginning for the NDDC in 2025 and set the pace for the rehabilitation of JONAPWD in the state.

During the event, beneficiaries received essential assistive devices such as hearing aids, walking aids, wheelchairs, and cash gifts, aimed at enhancing their quality of life and independence. These provisions reflect the commission’s unwavering dedication to promoting equal opportunities and creating an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of physical challenges, can thrive.

Notable personalities present at the event included the former Chairman of JONAPWD Imo State, Dr Stanley Nwachukwu; Imo NDDC Director, Sir Kelechi Nwelue; Imo Assistant Director, Head of Projects, Pastor Stephen Nwosu; Resource Person, Dr Mrs Egwim Angela Nkeiru; Resource Person, Dr Mercy Duruaku; and Dr Vincent Agbasoga, among others.

Read More: Participants Hail NDDC for Powering 2024 World AIDS Day in Imo