I
mo NDDC Donates Aids To Persons Living With Disabilities In Imo To Mark The 2024 International Day of Persons Living With Disabilities*
By Comr Temple Izu Dikeocha
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Friday 31st January 2025 held a one day seminar/workshop to mark the 2024 edition of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) observed annually by the NDDC.
The essence of the workshop is to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all aspects of the society and development.
Established by the United Nations in 1992, the day seeks to increase awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in a bid to create awareness and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Speaking on Friday at the workshop held at the Christian Association of Nigeria, Imo State Secretariat New Owerri, Hon Dr Kyrian C Uchegbu (PhD), the Imo State Rep of NDDC said this year’s theme *”AMPLIFYING THE LEADERSHIP OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES FOR AN INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE”* emphasizes the need for innovative approaches to achieve a more equitable and inclusive society.
According to Hon Dr Uchegbu, the Seminar is a call for practical strategies and solution to address systemic barriers that will ensure full participation and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in Imo NDDC.
Therefore, in line with this vision, NDDC has decided to host an annual grand event which will bring together high-profile dignitaries, stakeholders, and advocates to champion the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all Empowerment Programs of the Commission.
He highlighted the importance of building an inclusive and sustainable society and emphasized the need to amplify efforts in supporting Imolites living with disabilities.
Today’s gathering signifies our collective commitment to creating an inclusive society. Hon Dr Kyrian Uchegbu deeply appreciated the MD, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Governor Sen Hope Uzodinma and other stakeholders who have continued to champion this cause and urged Persons living with Disabilities in the State to continue to support both the State and Federal Govt as every entitlement and benefit meant for them shall henceforth get to them as the NDDC is now determined to make a difference in their lives.
Hon Dr Kyrian Uchegbu reiterated the NDDCs’s commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and promised to work together with relevant stakeholders to remove barriers and create a society where no one will be left behind.
He highlighted the NDDC’s commitment to disability inclusion and announced plans for the speedy implementation of programs and policies that wil amplify the voices of persons living with disabilities in the State using the State Chairman as a point of contact.
Hon Dr Kyrian C Uchegbu believes in creating a world where persons with disabilities can thrive, where barriers are removed, and opportunities abound. This can only be achieved through collective action and everyone, from business men to policymakers etc has a role to play in fostering this inclusion.
The event featured presentations of aids by the Imo NDDC Rep and some exhibitions showcasing the resilience and achievements of persons living with disabilities in Imo State.
*Temple Izu Dikeocha, a Public Affairs Analyst writes in from Umuokanne Ohaji.
