From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Anambra State governor’s wife, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has sponsored the enrollment of 1,000 persons with special needs in the Anambra State Healthcare Insurance Scheme.
Hosting them inside the governor’s lodge in Amawbia, people with various forms of deformities, physically challenged, the blind among others whom the governor’s wife maintained that they should be addressed as people with special needs and not disabled or other appellations which she said sounded derogatory, the Governor’s wife not only gave them a sense of belonging but she also made them feel at home as full bloodied part of the Anambra citizenry.
During the event, the largest ever convergence of such beneficiaries receiving the sponsorship from a governor’s wife since the scheme began in 2018, the governor’s wife while addressing the beneficiaries, said the intervention was a testament to her husband’s administration’s shared commitment to the well-being of people with special needs, particularly those living in the grassroots.
Mrs. Soludo who is also the founder of Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, said she was happy to support the enrollment of beneficiaries from the 179 communities in the state and that it free of charge.
“The current administration in the state is inspired to do this to bring service closer to our people. We also acknowledge the stride of our Government in all areas of endeavour to ensure equitable health delivery to all Ndi-Anambra.
“Our administration is working round the clock to ensure that everyone living in Anambra State gets a feel of good governance. We do not take the law of inclusiveness for granted. Our human capital policies are well-designed to explore potentials and give every Onye Anambra a veritable platform to be on board.
“Every one of us here bears a distinct dream. You bring unique value to this journey towards a livable and prosperous Anambra State. We have never had any doubt about that.
“I want to assure you that my husband’s administration takes notice of your existence and is working on something for you. A few months ago, I made a case for special provisions for people with special needs during recruitment processes in the state.
“My position was that those with special conditions should be given separate days to have their own time, space, and comfort to take part in the job processes. I have also been leading the campaign for our people to provide help for persons with visual impairments.
“Having flagged off the White Cane Campaign in Anambra State last year, I immediately understood the immense responsibility of leading from the front.”