Governor of Abia State, Victor Okezie lkpeazu PhD, has reiterated the efforts of his administration in prioritizing ‘Persons With Disabilities’ in the State.
Speaking on the occasion of International day of Persons With Disability at Michael Okpara auditorium, Umuahia, the Governor ably presented by Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Charles Esonu, enlightened participants on meaning and the reason for the day.
According to the Governor, a day like this, is set aside every last month of the year by International community, as an International Day of Persons with Disability, and a global observance celebrated with a motive to promote the rights and well-being of person with disabilities in all sphere of society.
This year’s theme for lDPD is Leadership and Participation of persons with disabilities towards an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post Covid-19 world.
The annual observance of this day is proclaimed in 1992 by United nations General Assembly resolution 47/3 with an aim to increase awareness of the issues faced by these persons in every aspect of; political, social economic and cultural life.
Abia State will not be left out in upholding these resolutions.
“Disabled People suffer from poor health, lack of equal opportunities in education and sometimes in work places too which in turn affect their lifestyle, and well-being often.
“The executive Governor in his manumit created a department of Physically Challenged and Impaired Youths in the Ministry of Youth Development, and graciously approved this occasion to mark this all important day.” He stated.
Dr. lkpeazu thanked the participants and extol them to be steadfast and resolute, assuring them of his administration’s commitment in; developing empowerment skills, talents and careers of all sectors and people more importantly, the youths who’re in their prime in; strength, agility, knowledge and technology of which disabled youths are not left out.
“I therefore urge you to remain calm, stay focused and believe in the dreams and aspirations of the Governor and Government of Abia State to always come up with good result.” He advised.
Making his own remarks during the event, the Permanent Secretary Ministries of Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Friday lwuoha showered praises on achievements of the Governor on the area of youth development and most importantly thanked him for approving this year’s international Day for Persons With Disability after 1996 was the last time Abia State observed the day.
The permanent secretary decried the activities of Covid-19 and its effects on government and society at large, and prayed that the 2022 budget will include Persons With Disabilities.
In his reaction, the president of Persons With Disabilities Abia State, Com. Onyedikachi Ukanu expressed his enjoy of taking part in this year’s celebration of their day, and thanked God for the privilege and Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for his magnanimity in bringing them together to celebrate their day.
Com. Ukanu seized opportunity to plead with Abia State house of Assembly to pass the (Persons With Disabilities bill) before them, as Abia State remains the only State yet to pass the bill.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Persons With Disabilities, Hon. Sam Ekeoma poured encomiums on the Governor and his wife Barr. Nkechi lkpeazu for their great contributions towards betterment of people with disabilities in the State.
“The mother of our State, has already donated more than 200 wheelchairs and 100 clutches. Her support to Abia State disabled athletes earned her matron in Africa Para-Olympics.” He enthused.
