The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Enugu State has formally endorsed Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election.
The association cited what it described as his administration’s commitment to inclusion and empowerment of persons living with disabilities for its endorsement.
The endorsement was announced following a State Executive meeting of the association held in Enugu on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Onyebuchi Mba, the group said it was throwing its weight behind the governor in recognition of policies and initiatives that have improved the welfare and visibility of persons with disabilities in the state.
According to the association, the endorsement reflects the collective position of the disability community in Enugu State, estimated at more than 200,000 citizens.
The statement said the leadership of the organisation arrived at the decision after reviewing Governor Mbah’s efforts in promoting inclusivity and ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left out in governance and development programmes.
JONAPWD particularly commended the governor for establishing the Enugu State Disability Commission in 2025.
It described the move as a landmark step toward institutionalizing the protection and advancement of disability rights in the state.
The association noted that the constitution of the commission’s board and the allocation of budgetary funding for its operations further demonstrated the administration’s commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities.
Sigh of relief
According to the group, the creation of the commission has provided a structured platform through which issues affecting persons with disabilities can be addressed more effectively.
The statement added that the initiative has strengthened the participation of the disability community in policy discussions and development planning within the state.
“Dr. Mbah has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the empowerment and inclusion of persons with disabilities,” the statement read.
“His administration’s decision to establish the Enugu State Disability Commission, as well as the constitution of its board members and provision of funding, stands as a clear demonstration that he is a promise keeper.”
The group further described the governor as a visionary leader whose policies have ushered in what it called an era of inclusivity in Enugu State.
According to JONAPWD, the current administration has created an environment where persons with disabilities are increasingly recognised as valuable contributors to the state’s social and economic development.
The association said the governor’s development agenda reflects a governance style that seeks to carry all segments of society along, including vulnerable groups.
It noted that the administration’s “Leave No One Behind” philosophy has given persons with disabilities renewed hope and a stronger sense of belonging within the state.
The group therefore called on members of the disability community across the state to support Governor Mbah’s bid for a second term.
It also urged residents of Enugu State to rally behind the governor in the 2027 election, stating that continued support for his leadership would help sustain policies aimed at inclusive development.
Obtaining PVCs
The association encouraged eligible voters, particularly persons with disabilities, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the election so they can actively participate in the democratic process.
JONAPWD further described Governor Mbah as a leader who combines vision with action, praising what it termed his ability to translate policy ideas into tangible projects and reforms.
The group reaffirmed its support for the governor’s administration and expressing optimism about the future of Enugu State under his leadership.
“The endorsement signals our determination to work with government and other stakeholders to build a more inclusive society where PWDs can thrive and fully contribute to the development of the state.
“On his mandate, we stand firm,” the statement concluded.
