By Leonard Okachie
The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has strengthened the capacity of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Abia State to enhance their participation in decision-making processes.
The one-day workshop held in Umuahia brought together PWD leaders, organisations, and representatives from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
It was organised in collaboration with the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons and supported by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF).
Acting Director of CCD, Mr Godwin Unumeri, said the workshop aimed to help stakeholders understand legal frameworks supporting inclusion, such as the Nigerian Constitution and the 2018 Disability Act.
He added that the workshop also sought to empower PWDs to actively engage in governance and participate effectively in decision-making processes.
“One key reason for their invisibility is the lack of representation where decisions are made,” Unumeri noted.
Chairman of the Commission, Mr David Anyaele, emphasised the importance of strengthening PWDs’ capacity to ensure their priorities were reflected in state governance.
He said such empowerment would enable them to prepare, articulate, and present their demands effectively within the system.
Anyaele added that Gov. Alex Otti was committed to disability inclusion, noting that more than seven PWDs had been appointed to leadership roles in his administration.
“At the Commission, we believe that involving PWDs in decision-making promotes inclusivity, empowerment, and human rights.
“This government is committed to ‘leaving no one behind’, PWDs must understand their place in policymaking,” he said.
Resource person, Dr Babatunde Asenuga, Deputy Director at the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation, emphasised the importance of PWDs knowing their legal rights and participating fully in governance.
In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Maureen Aghukwa, represented by Mrs Ngozi Nkuche, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to disability-inclusive policies and equal opportunities for all.
Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr Kingsley Anosike, represented by Permanent Secretary, Mrs Magdalene Onwu, lauded the initiative and expressed readiness to collaborate on inclusive planning, provided PWDs were well-organised and vocal in their advocacy.
He commended CCD and the commission for their tireless efforts in championing the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.(NAN)
