The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has empowered Persons Living with Disabilities, PWDs, in Akwa Ibom State, committing to greater inclusion in its development programmes.
Speaking during the empowerment programme, held in Uyo to commemorate the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, the NDDC Director, Akwa Ibom State office, Engr. Evong Evong, said the Commission was committed to promoting inclusion, empowerment, equality, and improved livelihoods for persons with disabilities and other underserved members of society through advocacy, capacity building, partnerships, and community-based initiatives.
Evong stated: “Disability should never be a hindrance to achieving one’s dreams or goals. Our aim is to equip youths and women with disabilities with the knowledge, skills, resources and confidence they need to become economically independent and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
He reaffirmed NDDC’s commitment, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, to promote equal opportunities and create sustainable pathways for youths and women with disabilities to participate fully in social and economic development.
The NDDC Director, Culture and Women Affairs, Mrs Imoni Ahunna, emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive society where Persons With Disabilities have equal access to education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, employment and other opportunities.
Imoni explained: “The NDDC organised the empowerment outreach programme to support youths and women living with disabilities through skills development, inclusion, advocacy, and access to opportunities.”
She added: “A nation or region is truly great not only by what it builds for the strong but how it carries the vulnerable people along.”
Imoni acknowledged the Board and Management of the NDDC, eulogising them for the positive impact they have created in the region in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. She promised to transmit the plea from the Special Assistant to the Government of Akwa Ibom State on Persons With Disabilities to the NDDC management for consideration and implementation.
The Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Government on Persons With Disabilities, Hon. Nene Bassey, thanked the NDDC for its efforts in assisting Persons With Disabilities in Akwa Ibom State even before the inception of the International Day for Persons Living With Disabilities in the state.
Bassey pleaded with the Management to employ Persons With Disabilities and give them the opportunity to access the NDDC scholarship without hitch.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Godwin Effiong, expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that the programme provided valuable opportunities to develop his abilities. He said, “With today’s training, I have learned that I have abilities even with a disability.”
Another beneficiary, Mrs. Helen Jeremiah, said she gained valuable lessons that would improve her livelihood and build her confidence.
