People with Disabilities (PWDs) in Abia State have celebrated the international achievements of some of their members during the 2025 Disability Day.
The celebration, themed “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disability for an inclusive and sustainable future”, featured street walks in Aba and Umuahia, the state capital, culminating in a panel discussion with senior government officials.
Blessing Felix, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation/Social Protection, Dr Maureen Aghukwa, Commissioner for Women Affairs, and Prof Enoch Uche, Commissioner for Health (represented by Dr Francis Agu), expressed the government’s commitment to the progress and welfare of PWDs in the state.
David Anyaele, Chairman of the state Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons and Special Assistant to Governor Alex Otti on Disability Matters, lauded the significant progress made within the disability community during the past 20 months of Otti’s administration.
He highlighted the international achievements of Abians with disabilities, including Dr Chris Nwanoro representing Nigeria at the United Nations Organisation (UNO), Dr Chidi Oluchie serving as President of the West African Federation of the Deaf, and Stanley Onyebuchi serving as national Chairman of the Nigerian Association of the Blind.
Anyaele also celebrated the achievements of Onyinyechi, Esther, and others who won gold, silver, and bronze medals at the recent Paralympics competition. He attributed these accomplishments to Governor Otti’s supportive attitude towards PWDs.
He emphasised that Otti has not only approved budgetary provision for PWDs but also granted the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities’ request to establish its South East Zonal Office in the state.
Speaking about the celebration, Anyaele said: “The day offered us the opportunity to share the plight of people with disabilities, celebrate their success stories, and create a platform for them to review the efforts made and still being made to improve their quality of life in the state.”
Panellists confirmed that Governor Otti’s administration has been disability-friendly, demonstrated by establishing the PWDs Welfare Commission, creating a Ministry of Poverty Alleviation, empowering PWDs in government positions, and ensuring the comfort and ease of PWDs in all projects and facilities, in accordance with global standards.
Blessing Ononogbu, spokesperson for the National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Abia State, expressed gratitude to Governor Otti, his wife Prescilia Otti, and David Anyaele for prioritising their welfare.
