Ekwusigo Strengthens Disability Inclusion Through Partnership With JONAPID

By Mokwugwo Ogochukwu

Efforts to promote disability inclusion and improve the welfare of persons with disabilities in Ekwusigo Local Government Area received renewed attention following a strategic engagement between the Ekwusigo Local Government and the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPID).

The meeting, held at the Ekwusigo Local Government Council Hall on July 1, focused on addressing the challenges confronting persons with disabilities and identifying practical measures to expand inclusion, improve access to opportunities, and enhance their overall wellbeing.

Speaking during the engagement, the Mayor of Ekwusigo Local Government Area, Hon. Chimezie James Obi, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to building a society where persons with disabilities enjoy equal access to empowerment programmes, public services, and opportunities to participate fully in community development.

Hon. Obi also commended JONAPID for its consistent advocacy and assured the association of the council’s continued collaboration with disability groups and other stakeholders to implement policies and initiatives that promote equal participation and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.

On behalf of the association, JONAPID representatives appreciated the Mayor for granting them an audience and for demonstrating a willingness to engage the disability community on issues affecting their welfare. They expressed optimism that the partnership would lead to meaningful improvements in accessibility, inclusion, and the quality of life of persons with disabilities across Ekwusigo.

The meeting concluded with both the Ekwusigo Local Government and JONAPID reaffirming their commitment to sustained collaboration in advancing disability inclusion and ensuring that persons with disabilities play an active role in the development of the local government.