The Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the capacity of disaster management responders to ensure that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are not left behind during emergencies.
Speaking at a one-day capacity-building workshop in Aba, the commission’s chairman, Mr. David Anyaele, emphasized the need to strengthen the skills of emergency personnel in disability-inclusive disaster response. The training, organized by the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) in collaboration with the commission and supported by the Disability Rights Fund, brought together key stakeholders in emergency response and climate change mitigation.
Anyaele underscored the urgency of equipping responders with the necessary knowledge and resources, stressing that disasters affect everyone, regardless of ability. He also highlighted the role of government agencies, ministries, and departments in ensuring that disability considerations are integrated into disaster preparedness plans.
Expressing gratitude to Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering support, Anyaele commended the governor’s directive mandating that all public infrastructure, including parking spaces, be made accessible to PWDs.
Speaking at the workshop, CCD’s Acting Director, Mr. Godwin Unumeri, stressed the importance of identifying PWDs and understanding their specific needs during disasters to ensure an effective response. He noted that many responders lack awareness of proper communication strategies for evacuating PWDs safely.
Dr. Queensley Chukwudum, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Uyo’s Department of Insurance and Risk Management, also contributed to the training, presenting best practices for integrating disability considerations into climate change policies and emergency preparedness.
In his remarks, Mr. Chris Ike, Director of Climate Change at the Abia State Ministry of Environment, assured participants that the ministry is deliberately incorporating PWD-inclusive strategies into climate change initiatives. He revealed that PWDs played an active role in formulating the Abia State Climate Change Policy and Action Plan and will continue to be included in future programs.
Participants at the workshop included representatives from the State Fire Service, the State Emergency Management Agency, relevant ministries, civil society organizations, and PWD cluster leaders.
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