Empowering Persons With Disabilities Is Justice, Not Charity – Akwa Ibom Government

Empowering Persons With Disabilities Is Justice, Not Charity – Akwa Ibom Government

Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, has said that Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) should not be pitied but supported, stressing that they are valuable contributors to society with enormous potential.

Ibanga stated this during an event at the Government House Banquet Hall, Uyo, held in line with the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities. She emphasized that empowerment for PLWDs is an issue of justice and inclusion, not an act of charity.

Her remarks followed the announcement by the Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, that the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Governing Board had set aside December 3 every year as the national economic empowerment day for PLWDs.

Represented by the Akwa Ibom First Lady-designate, Helen Obareki, Mrs Tinubu oversaw the disbursement of N200,000 business recapitalization grants to 250 beneficiaries in the state. She said the annual programme, conducted across all 36 states and the FCT, would support 9,500 PLWDs nationwide.

She encouraged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely, describing the grants as seeds meant to grow into sustainable businesses.

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“In recognition of our shared responsibility to promote inclusion, the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative has resolved to make the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities an annual event,” she said.

Commissioner Ibanga commended Governor Umo Eno for prioritizing PLWDs in the state, noting that they are fully integrated into the social register and equipped to access key interventions, including healthcare.

“Today’s event is a reminder that those with disability are not to be pitied but supported. They are not a burden but contributors who carry inexplicable strength,” she said.

She urged the public to give PLWDs equal opportunities to thrive.