For Maria Okeke, Ifeoma Udenwa and Ifeanyi Eze it was another exciting moments and joy. They made these affirmation as the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), held its End of the Year 2025 party.
The group equally used the opportunity to appeal to the Governor Chukwuma Soludo to strengthen the state’s Disability Commission and enforce the existing Disability Rights Law, for inclusion and job creation.
The event which was hallmarked with special Christmas packages, praises, dance, merriments took place at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Amawbia, during the weekend.
Speaking in his opening remark, JONAPWD State Chairman,
Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke disclosed that despite the existing Disability laws, the disability community have continuted to experince setbacks and barriers in contributing their quota towards development and good governance. “We still face real challenges, such as inaccessibility of public buildings, transport, schools, and health facilities; limited employment opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities in the organized private sector”.
The JONAPWD Boss however urged Anambra state government to improve accessibility in public infrastructure, empower the Disability Commission, and expand livelihood and employment programmes. Adding that religious institutions should make worship centers more inclusive and fight stigmatization within communities.
He appealed to schools to adopt inclusive learning systems and healthcare facilities to ensure better access, rehabilitation services, and early interventions for children with disabilities.
Okeke commended Governor Soludo on his re-election and praised his administration’s support for the disability community. He also appreciated the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for extending economic empowerment to 250 PWDs in Anambra State, saying it would enhance their financial independence.
