- Opens Skills Acquisition Centre
BY RITA OYIBOKA/OGECHI EJIOFOR
Delta State Government has deepened its disability inclusion agenda, including stronger legal protection and expanded empowerment programmes for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) as the world marked the International Day of Persons With Disabilities.
Speaking during the commemorative event themed “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress” and held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Hon. Princess Pat Ajudua, stressed that the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration was “walking the talk” on disability inclusion, emphasizing that the state was moving beyond rhetoric and delivering tangible outcomes for persons with disabilities.
According to her, “We celebrate the International Day of Persons Living with Disabilities. Since the inception of this administration, the welfare of persons with special needs has received additional impetus through programmes aimed at empowering them”.
Ajudua highlighted a key milestone, the signing of the Protection of Persons with Disabilities Law by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, which she described as a structural safeguard guaranteeing equal participation without “discrimination, alienation, or stigmatisation.”
She also announced a major infrastructure upgrade: a new skill acquisition centre built at the state transit home for PWDs on NTA Road, Asaba, through a partnership with the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC).
According to her, the centre will “provide training in various skills and vocations, enabling persons with disabilities to become self-reliant and contribute to national development.”
Ajudua further disclosed that many PWDs have secured government jobs and political appointments, reaffirming the administration’s “commitment to ensuring everyone gets their fair opportunity.”
She thanked the governor for releasing funds for this year’s celebration and “his continued empowerment strategies.”
Also speaking, State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), Comrade Ernest Igbuzo, praised the state government for sustained support, noting significant gains under his leadership.
“We have secured civil service jobs for over 100 of our members. In the past three years, more than 500 of our related start-ups have been enrolled for free medical care under the Contributory Health Scheme. We now have a brand-new facility awaiting commissioning,” he said.
He urged members to remain united and disciplined, saying that “If you are given a task or instruction, please follow it diligently. That is the only way we can grow together.”
Igbuzo expressed appreciation to the Commissioner and her team for their responsiveness and consistent backing, describing her as “a hero in her own right.”
He also acknowledged support from international partners and local cluster heads, praying for continued unity among PWDs across the state.
