From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Abia State government has assured visually impaired persons in the State that the present administration would continue to give greater attention to them and ensure inclusiveness for the physically challenged.
Governor Alex Otti who gave the assurance while addressing a group of visually impaired persons at Government House Umuahia as part of activities to commemorate the 2023 International White Cane Safety Day, said his government was particular about the inclusiveness and rights of the physically challenged individuals.
The Governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Caleb Ajagba disclosed that his administration was a sensitive and compassionate one, stressing that was why several agencies were created to cater for the vulnerable groups and persons living with disabilities in the State.
Otti, while describing the theme of this year’s event, “Removing The Barriers that Impede the Rehabilitations And Total Independence Of Persons With Visual Impairment” as apt, equally commended the First Lady of the State, Mrs Priscilla Otti and the Ministry of Women Affairs for their inputs and untiring efforts at ensuring the group continues to get her pride of place in society.
He urged them not to be deterred with their condition assuring that he would ensure their potentials were harnessed and urged them to coorperate with all the agencies created to cater for them.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Vulnerable Groups and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Thomas Ifeoma and Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disabilities, David Anyaele harped on the importance of the White Cane Safety Day celebration and the significance of the White Cane.
They thanked the Wife of the Governor for presenting 100 White Canes to the blind community as requested.
The State Chairman of the visually impaired persons, Mr. Isaac Williams had explained that White Cane
represents a tool of independence, both in movement and identity for the blind person, adding that it was only the blind that holds it as it helps the blind person navigate his way
He thanked Governor Otti for being the first Governor to sponsor the celebration in Abia and described the event as an oopportunity to educate the public about the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments and ways to promote inclusion and accessibility in society.