RismadarVoice Reporters
June 2, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Government has commenced a three-day training programme on wheelchair and walking aid device assembly and fitting as part of efforts to strengthen mobility support services for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) across the state.
The training, organised by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs in partnership with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), was officially flagged off on Tuesday in Uyo.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, said the programme is designed to equip clinicians, technicians and artisans with the skills required to assemble, fit and adapt mobility devices to meet the specific needs of beneficiaries.
She disclosed that the initiative followed the donation of 263 wheelchairs and 181 walking aid devices by the LDS Church to the state government, describing the gesture as a significant contribution to improving the quality of life of persons living with disabilities.
According to the commissioner, physiotherapists from Uganda have been engaged to facilitate the training and expose participants to international best practices in the assembly, adaptation and maintenance of assistive mobility devices.
Princess Ibanga commended the LDS Church for its continued humanitarian interventions and partnership with the state government, noting that collaborations of this nature are critical to expanding access to essential services for vulnerable groups.
She also highlighted the administration’s commitment to disability inclusion through the ARISE Agenda, citing educational support grants, empowerment initiatives, inclusion of PWDs in the State Social Register and increased representation of persons with disabilities in government.
“The training will ensure that mobility devices are properly assembled and adapted to enhance the comfort, safety and independence of beneficiaries,” she said.
In his welcome address, the Director of Administration and Supplies in the ministry, Mr Edwin James, expressed appreciation to the church for the donation and support, adding that artisans and technicians would be periodically engaged to assemble and maintain mobility devices for effective distribution across the state.
Representing the LDS Church, Mr Christian Onornghe said the organisation remains committed to humanitarian assistance and support for vulnerable populations. He noted that the donated wheelchairs and walking aids would be distributed through the ministry to persons with mobility challenges.
Also speaking, the lead facilitator and physiotherapist from Uganda, Mr Omoding Herbert, said the programme was structured to provide practical knowledge in wheelchair assembly and fitting, urging participants to maximise the opportunity.
The Personal Assistant to the Governor on Persons With Disabilities, Comrade Ubong Ikpe, commended both the state government and the church for prioritising the welfare of persons with disabilities through the training and donation programme.
The training is expected to improve local capacity in the assembly and maintenance of mobility devices, thereby enhancing access to assistive support services and promoting inclusion for persons with disabilities in Akwa Ibom State.
