NDDC presents items, cash to persons with disabilities in Akwa Ibom State

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has presented mobility and hearing aids to persons living with disabilities in Akwa Ibom State, assuring them of its commitment to their well-being and development.

The NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, handed over the items, which included wheelchairs, sensor-guide canes, hearing aids, and crutches, the beneficiaries in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, at an event held to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Cash was also disbursed to the beneficiaries.

Ogbuku, who was represented by the Commissioner representing Akwa Ibom State on the Governing Board of the Commission, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, remarked that some physically challenged persons were very talented and gifted, stating that what such people needed were opportunities and support to live meaningful and sustainable lives.

He declared, “The NDDC, as a forward-thinking Commission, believes in inclusivity; we don’t operate on biases. Being able-bodied is a privilege, not a right. One might be well today and become disabled tomorrow.”

Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono

“This event proves that the NDDC has a robust welfare package for youths, women, and persons living with disabilities, and we have over the years rolled out programs to address their challenges.”

The NDDC Chief Executive Officer reaffirmed the commitment of the Commission to assist people living with disabilities to give them sustainable livelihoods, noting that NDDC was devoted to the overall development of persons living with disabilities. He implored the beneficiaries to make appropriate use of the items given to them.

In her remarks, NDDC State Director, Mrs. Anthonia Akpan, commended the zeal and courage exhibited by persons with disabilities (PWDs) and reiterated the Commission’s commitment to meeting their needs.

The Special Assistant to Governor Umo Eno on PWDs, Nnene Bassey, accompanied by the Governor’s Personal Assistant on PWDs, Ubong Ikpe, appreciated NDDC for the gesture and assured that beneficiaries would put the items to good use. Bassey acknowledged the federal government’s enactment of a law against Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities, which provides for the integration of persons with disabilities into society.

A cross-section of the beneficiaries showered praises on the Commission and solicited more programs, especially business-oriented initiatives, to boost their economic drive.

Highpoint of the event was the donation of cash, mobility aids, and hearing aids to the beneficiaries.

Also gracing the event were Mrs Angela Shittu from the Commission’s Head Office and Mr Nobert Brown, Assistant Director, NDDC Akwa Ibom State.

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