Keystone Bank Limited has partnered with the Akwa Ibom State Government and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to provide wheelchairs, walking aids and specialised training for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Uyo.

The initiative included the distribution of customised mobility devices to beneficiaries and a three-day capacity-building programme for local clinicians and artisans to strengthen disability support services across the state.

According to the bank, the training equipped participants with practical skills in the assembly, fitting, repair, maintenance and adaptation of wheelchairs and other mobility aids, enabling them to provide personalised support within their communities.

Commenting on the initiative, Keystone Bank’s Group Head of Corporate Communications, Izore Lami-Bamawo, said the partnership reflects the institution’s commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable groups through sustainable interventions.

“Keystone Bank is proud to partner with the Akwa Ibom State Government and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on this impactful initiative. The programme reflects our shared commitment to promoting social inclusion, improving mobility and enhancing the quality of life for persons with disabilities. We commend the Akwa Ibom State Government for championing this initiative, which aligns closely with Keystone Bank’s commitment to empowering communities and fostering sustainable development,” she said.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, described the programme as a significant step towards improving mobility, independence and dignity for persons with disabilities.

She said the initiative had strengthened the state’s capacity to deliver sustainable mobility support services through the training of local clinicians and artisans, while commending Keystone Bank and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their collaboration.

Also speaking, Elder Enefiok Tom Ntem, representing The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said the initiative reflects the Church’s commitment to humanitarian service and supporting vulnerable members of society.

Beneficiaries received customised wheelchairs and walking aids, while clinicians and artisans who completed the training were presented with certificates and pledged to apply their newly acquired skills in supporting persons with disabilities across Akwa Ibom State.

The initiative forms part of Keystone Bank’s broader corporate social responsibility programme, through which the bank collaborates with governments and development partners to promote inclusion, improve access to essential services and support sustainable community development.