The Joint National Association of Persons with Disability (JONAPWD) Enugu State chapter wants Governor Peter Mbah to inaugurate the State Disability Commission without further delay.
In a congratulatory message to Governor Mbah on his second year in office, JONAPWD noted that the governor promised to inaugurate the commission and to prioritize the needs of persons with disabilities and vulnerable populations.
“We recall your inspirational declaration during the 2024 December 14th Town Hall meeting with Ndi-Enugu, where you listened to our concerns and promised to establish the Commission within the first quarter of 2025”.
Signed by Comrade Onyebuchi Mbah, its Chairman, the letter called for more intentional approach to the economic development of PWDs.
They also called for the mainstreaming of disability inclusion into governance, ensuring sustainability, and a paradigm shift from charity.
“By working together, we can build a more inclusive, accessible and prosperous Enugu State for all, regardless of abilities,” JONAPWD said.
Mbah’s achievements acknowledged
JONAPWD acknowledged that unprecedented achievements recorded by the governor within two years but decried exclusion of PWDs.
“As you mark second year in office, we appreciate the significant strides made in various sectors that impact the lives of Ndi-Enugu.
“The ongoing construction of 260 Smart Green Schools, promoting inclusive education, providing conducive learning environments: and establishment of 260 Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, improving access to healthcare services etc.
“However, as persons with disabilities, we continued our usual and peculiar socio-economic ordeals under your leadership, and the absence of Enugu State Disability Commission has further exacerbated our plights.
“The passage of time has revealed a stark contrast between your promises and the reality on the ground about disability matters, with no single political appointment, no empowerment policy targeted at persons with Disabilities and no Disability Commission etc.
“We are left to ask: Are we truly a priority in your administration? Have we been forgotten? Is our tomorrow truly here? Are we truly part of your disruptive innovation policies?
JONAPWD remains optimistic
JONAPWD expressed optimism that the governor will make good his promise to eliminate the long-time systemic exclusion and discrimination.
“Our tomorrow is yet to be fully realized, and we look forward to seeing the positive change you promised.
“The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Enugu State CHAPTER, in solidarity endorses Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s leadership and vision for Enugu State.
The disability community also pledged total support for governor Mba’s continued efforts to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and equal representation for a sustainable development.
