The Abia State Government has announced plans to provide ramps and designated parking spaces for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in all public places across the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this while briefing the press on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting, presided over by Governor Alex Otti in Umuahia, the state capital.

Kanu highlighted that the initiative aligns with the state’s recent celebration of Abia State Disabilities Day, which featured a two-day program organized by the Disabilities Commission.

To mark the occasion, the government has adopted a policy mandating the installation of ramps in all public buildings and the allocation of special parking spaces for PWDs.

“This move is a continuation of last week’s Disability Day celebration, themed ‘Amplifying the Leadership of Persons With Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,’” he stated.

The commissioner emphasized that this decision reflects the compassionate leadership of Governor Alex Otti and his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all residents.

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Committed to fostering inclusion and self-sufficiency, the Rotary Club of Lekki Phase 1 has empowered selected People With Disabilities (PWDs) in Lagos through free vocational training, equipping them with essential skills to build sustainable livelihoods.

The club also donated N1.5 million to the Friends of Persons with Disabilities Vocational Centre, Oja Oba, Lagos Island, to further support skill development for PWDs. Speaking at the event, the club’s President, Sina Elusakin, highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship in reducing poverty and ensuring financial independence for marginalized communities.

Elusakin explained that a strict selection process was adopted to ensure that only those with genuine commitment and passion benefited from the programme. “Our goal is to empower PWDs, steering them away from street begging by creating income-generating opportunities,” he stated, adding that the club is exploring further ways to provide sustainable support.

Encouraging the beneficiaries to put their newly acquired skills to use, he emphasized their potential to transform not only their own lives but also their communities. The initiative, he noted, has set a new benchmark for community engagement, with many calling for its continuation to create broader access to opportunities.

Reacting to the gesture, a Board of Trustees member at the centre, Mr. Vigil Anyanwu, praised the club for its compassionate approach. He commended the determination of PWDs in acquiring vocational skills, describing their success as proof of resilience in overcoming challenges.

“With the increasing rate of unemployment and economic hardship, persons with disabilities require tailored support. Rotary’s intervention is a testament to what is possible when organisations step in to uplift vulnerable groups,” Anyanwu said, urging more well-meaning individuals and organisations to invest in vocational training initiatives for PWDs.

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The Special Assistant (SA) on Disabled Matters to the Katsina State Governor, Umar Jibril Bindawa, has advocated for the creation of a Disability Commission in the state.

Bindawa made this appeal during a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji (Dr.) Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, at his palace in Katsina.

He emphasized that establishing a dedicated commission would play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), addressing their unique challenges, and recognizing their contributions to society.

During the visit, Bindawa reinforced the importance of collaboration between his office and traditional institutions in championing the rights and inclusion of PWDs. He acknowledged the Emir’s longstanding commitment to promoting inclusivity, citing his engagement with individuals with disabilities within his council.

As a gesture of appreciation for the Emir’s leadership and unwavering support for disability inclusion, Bindawa presented him with an Award of Gratitude.

In response, the Emir lauded Governor Umar Dikko Radda for his historic appointment of the state’s first deaf Special Assistant on Disabled Matters, describing it as a progressive step toward inclusive governance. He assured his full backing for the establishment of a Disabilities Commission and pledged to advocate for policies that address the needs of PWDs.

Reaffirming his commitment to inclusivity, the Emir assured that his palace remains open to all, encouraging PWDs to bring forward their concerns. He stressed that everyone is equal before Allah and concluded with prayers for the success of all efforts aimed at empowering the disabled community.

The Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has bestowed its prestigious Award of Excellence on Mr. Sope Alabede, a physically challenged senior staff member, in recognition of his exceptional service and dedication. Mr. Alabede stood out among over a dozen nominees to clinch the top honour as the ministry’s most outstanding senior staff.

In presenting the award, the ministry commended his unwavering commitment to efficiency and quality service delivery. Officials encouraged him to maintain his high standards and continue contributing to the ministry’s reforms, particularly those aimed at protecting women, children, and vulnerable groups.

Additionally, six other employees received awards across different categories for their contributions to the ministry’s success.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Motunrayo Adeleye, spoke after the ministry’s 3-in-1 event in Abeokuta, which combined an annual lecture, an award ceremony, and a New Year celebration. She described the m hmmoment as both an honour and a challenge for the awardees to strive for greater achievements.

According to her, their recognition is a testament to the impact of hard work and innovation, which should not only elevate them as individuals but also contribute to the growth of the ministry, Ogun State, and the nation as a whole.

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