"Empowering People Living with Disabilities: Justice and Inclusion Over Charity, Says Akwa Ibom Government"

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Economic Empowerment Initiative
3. Annual Commemoration
4. Support for Persons with Disabilities
5. Conclusion

The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs in Akwa Ibom State, Princess Emem Ibanga, has stated that individuals living with disabilities should not be pitied but supported. She emphasized that they are not a burden but rather contributors and possess remarkable strength.

The Commissioner characterized the empowerment of persons living with disabilities (PLWDs) as an act of justice and inclusion, urging everyone to assist individuals with disabilities wherever possible and provide them with opportunities to succeed, as they have great potential.

Her remarks come following the announcement by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, regarding the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). They have designated December 3 of each year for the economic empowerment of Persons Living With Disabilities throughout Nigeria.

Mrs. Tinubu, represented by the Akwa Ibom First Lady designate, Helen Obareki, revealed this information at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Wednesday. This event coincided with the disbursement of N200,000 Business Recapitalization grants to 250 persons with disabilities in the state, aligning with the 2025 celebration of Persons with Disabilities themed: “Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.”

She explained that this initiative will be held annually on December 3, coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and aims to promote inclusion, improve lives, and instill hope among individuals in this community.

The First Lady stated that the program would take place simultaneously in all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, with a total of 9,500 persons with disabilities expected to benefit.

Highlighting that the initiative is designed to assist small business owners in recapitalizing their existing enterprises and enhancing their livelihoods, the First Lady encouraged beneficiaries to make the most of this opportunity.

In part, the statement read: “In recognition of our shared responsibility to promote inclusion, the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative has resolved to make the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities an annual event, to be held on December 3rd, in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. To all our beneficiaries, I encourage you to seize this opportunity. Let it be a seed that grows into something greater; a business that sustains you and your family.”

Meanwhile, Commissioner Ibanga praised Governor Umo Eno for giving individuals with disabilities a significant role in the state.

According to her, “Governor Umo Eno has ensured that individuals with disabilities are fully included in the state’s social register, allowing them to benefit from any interventions and removing barriers to accessing healthcare. Today’s event serves as a reminder that those with disabilities should not be pitied but supported. They are not a burden but contributors who carry immense strength.”

The Commissioner reiterated that empowerment should be viewed not as charity but as justice and inclusion, urging everyone to support persons with disabilities wherever they are and provide them with opportunities to thrive, as they possess great potential.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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