As the world commemorates the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on 3 December, renewed calls have emerged in Rivers State for deeper inclusion and stronger government action to address the needs of persons living with disabilities.
The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Rivers State, Collins Akpana whole speaking in Port Harcourt, urged the state government to ensure that persons with disabilities are fully integrated into key aspects of development.
He appealed for their consideration in political appointments, stressing that many continue to face barriers ranging from limited employment opportunities and inadequate office spaces to poor access to healthcare and scholarships.
Akpana encouraged members of the association to remain law-abiding and called on residents to desist from discriminatory practices, noting that persons with disabilities can thrive when given equal opportunities.
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Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening policies and programmes that promote accessibility and inclusion. She disclosed that the state has upgraded major facilities to support persons with disabilities and is currently renovating four zonal hospitals to better accommodate their needs.
According to the National Radio Network (NRN), this year’s IDPD theme is “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.”
