Rismadarvoice – 4th December 2025
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to building a disability-inclusive society as the world marks the 2025 International Day of Persons Living with Disabilities (IDPWD).
The Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, made the declaration on Wednesday, December 3, while hosting the State Executive Council of the Joint National Association of Persons Living with Disabilities (JONAPWD) at the Ministry’s Hall.
The global commemoration, themed “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” provided a platform for the State government to highlight ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting the rights, dignity, and welfare of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs), while celebrating their contributions to societal growth.
Welcoming the delegation, Princess Ibanga expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life, describing it as the foundation of meaningful development.
She stressed that PWDs hold a special place in the heart of the present administration and the ministry’s agenda.
“Persons Living With Disabilities are special to this administration and to me personally. That is why we consider it important to mark this day in solidarity with you,” she said, appreciating the disability community for supporting Governor Umo Eno’s programmes.
“As a ministry where the disability community is domiciled, your input is invaluable. We welcome ideas that will help us grow, work better, and serve you more effectively,” she assured.
The State Chairman of JONAPWD, Comr. Anietie Jackson, commended the government for its inclusive policies, describing the Umo Eno administration as one that has strategically mainstreamed disability inclusion into governance.
“This is a government that has made PWDs an integral part of its development agenda. Our commitment goes beyond celebration; it includes active advocacy and partnership,” he said, pledging continued support for the ARISE Agenda.
Also speaking, Pastor Anne Abraham, Team Lead of Golden Initiative For All (GIFA), praised Governor Eno for appointing competent individuals into key positions. She described Commissioner Ibanga as “a square peg in a square hole,” highlighting her effective leadership, and encouraged PWDs to continue harnessing their abilities.
The Personal Assistant to the Governor on PWDs, Comr. Ubong Ikpe, noted the unprecedented number of PWDs appointed into strategic leadership roles as evidence of the Governor’s respect for their dignity and potential. He urged PWDs to sustain their support for the administration’s developmental drive.
Goodwill messages were also delivered by Mr. Edmond Ekanem, South-South Zonal Coordinator of JONAPWD, and Ms. Peace Aniefiok, State Cluster Head for Albinism, who commended the government’s inclusive policies and called for strengthened collaboration to further advance the interests of PWDs in the State.
The celebration reaffirmed the State Government’s dedication to ensuring that PWDs remain active contributors to policy formation, governance, and societal progress in Akwa Ibom State.
