NDDC Empowerment Program: A Beacon Of Hope For Persons With Disabilities In Imo State
Amara Iwuoha
In celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) took a bold step in fostering inclusivity and empowerment by organising a remarkable empowerment program in Imo State.
This initiative reaffirmed the commitment of the government to uplifting the lives of persons with disabilities, ensuring that they are not left behind in the journey of national development.
The epochal event which took place at Owerri, had the theme “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.” It featured notable resource persons with focus on financial management, leadership skills, importance of wellness and sports, and mental health.
In his address, the NDDC lmo State representative, Dr. Kyrian Chidiebere Uchegbu stated that the program was organised as a way of reminding members of lmo State Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), that they were not in any manner forgotten. He added that such gesture was demonstrated due to the love the commission has for the special citizens.
Dr. Uchegbu urged the beneficiaries to support the government at both the state and federal levels, as their voices and contributions are invaluable in shaping policies that foster progress and inclusivity.
He assured that the program would be sustained as an annual event and special citizens will be captured in every empowerment initiative carried out by the commission henceforth.
The newly elected lmo State Chairman of JONAPWD, Barr. C. U Ekwelem Jr, expressed joy over the gesture extended to the JONAPWD community by NDDC. He noted that special citizens in the state are known for their peaceful disposition and progress in various skills acquisitions, emphasising that lmo’s special citizens do not associate themselves with begging for arms.
He called on government and other corporate bodies to support the group in becoming more self-reliant, noting that not all the members can be integrated into the government systems. He also advocated for partnership with NDDC in various engagements.
Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Citizens, Dr Samuelson Emehibe described the event as a well-organised program by NDDC, adding that the program was a mark of positive beginning for NDDC in 2025, and has set a pace for the rehabilitation of JONAPWD in the state.
During the event, beneficiaries were provided with essential assistive devices such as hearing aids, supporting staffs, wheelchairs, and cash gifts, aimed at enhancing their quality of life and independence. These provisions reflect the commission’s unwavering dedication to promoting equal opportunities and creating an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their physical challenges, can thrive.
The program served as a reminder that persons with disabilities are an integral part of our society, and their empowerment is key to achieving sustainable development.
Personalities present at the event included the former Chairman of JONAPWD lmo State, Dr Stanley Nwachukwu; Imo NDDC Director, Sir Kelechi Nwelue; Imo Assistant Director Head of Projects, Pastor Stephen Nwosu; Resource Persons, Dr. Mrs Egwim Angela Nkeiru; Resource Person, Dr. Mercy Duruaku; Dr Vincent Agbasoga among others.
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