BY MONICA OGBAUDU
THE chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD) Isoko South chapter, Mr Sammy Emmanuel has recently stated their commitment to effect meaningful changes and to emphasize the strength of the nation through collaborative engagement.
He made this assertion in his address presented during the commemoration of the International World Disability day held in Chief Ekpre Otobo hall in Isoko south local government secretariat Oleh and also enumerated some of their needs which include establishment of skill acquisition center to equip them with vocational skills.
Others are, provision of accessible infrastructure such as toilets and pathways, creation of disability desk at the local government council, to address pertinent issues as well as microfinance support and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities.
He however urged all meaningful Nigerians particularly the good people of Isoko nation, within and in diaspora to offer their support in realizing their vision for persons with disabilities and also given the opportunity to participate in decision making as they move forward in tandem with the rest of the society.
While presenting an award to the executive chairman of the Isoko south local government council, Hon. Warri Ovoke Friday in recognition of his unwavering support since his assumption of office, Mr Sammy Emmanuel further appealed for more substantial support.
In his remarks, the council boss, Comrade Warri Ovoke Friday acknowledged their distinctive individual values and contributions to the local government pledging to engage with the council management to address and identify with critical issues raised as regards their welfare.
He enjoined them to avoid feelings of rejection and intimidation within the society adding that, their challenges should not deter them from asserting their rightful positions as esteemed members of the society and must, at any given time perceived themselves as equal to others.
The chairman who commemorated the event with over two hundred physically challenged persons assured them of God’s love and divine providence and also reiterated his leadership accountability to them.
The event featured special presentation disabled pupils of Owhara Primary School, Oleh and the distribution of gift items such as, rice and cash to all participants.
