The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has organised an empowerment programme for women and youths with disabilities in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to promote inclusion and economic independence.
The outreach, held to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, focused on equipping participants with skills and knowledge to overcome challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Director of Culture and Women Affairs at the NDDC, Mrs Ahunna Imoni, urged beneficiaries not to allow disability to limit their ambitions, noting that determination, creativity and mindset were essential to achieving success.
She encouraged them to understand their rights, improve their abilities and take advantage of opportunities available to them.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Coordinator of the Office of the Public Defender, Dr Evelyn Membere Asimiea, commended the commission for supporting persons with disabilities.
However, she emphasised that empowerment should extend beyond financial and material assistance to create lasting opportunities for beneficiaries.
Similarly, a Professor of Human Rights and Disability Rights at Rivers State University, Professor Oby Peters Adiela, called for a rights-based approach to disability, stressing the need to uphold dignity, equal opportunities and active participation in society.
Participants expressed appreciation to the NDDC for the initiative and pledged to apply the knowledge and skills gained to improve their lives.
