By Tony Adibe
Appreciation/Press Statement by the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), Enugu State Chapter has expressed “our utmost appreciation to the Governor Peter Mbah-led administration for hosting the Enugu State JONAPWD/OPDs meet.
JONAPWD, particularly thanked the Commissioner for Children, Gender and Social Development Affairs who facilitated the successful hosting of the meeting.
In a press statement signed and issued on Tuesday in Enugu by the state Chairman, Comrade Onyebuchi Mba, JONAPWD said that the exigency to unify the entire Enugu disability family under one single umbrella body, was a critical agenda for which the association would remain deeply grateful for the attention and action taken on the matter.
Comrade Onyebuchi said that singular initiative which discouraged the proliferation of Enugu disability community, “resonates with the Tomorrow is Here” doctrine of the current administration.
He said: “It embodies our shared vision for total inclusivity and truly reflects the operational spirit of “leave no one behind” in the state’s affairs. The commitment to these principles gives hope to the disability community and strengthens our belief in the government’s dedication to ensuring equal opportunities and representation for Persons with Disabilities.”
The association said that its me did not take for granted the significant steps taken to endorse the unification of PWDs and to streamline their communication with the government by their parent ministry. According to Onyebuchi, “This collective effort is a testament to the administration’s genuine commitment to securing the rights and improving the lives of PWDs in Enugu State. It is an acknowledgement of the fact that our voices are being heard and valued within the corridors of power.”
Part of the statement read: “We assure you of our unwavering commitment to supporting and actively participating in this unified approach, as we work together towards achieving an inclusive and equitable society for all citizens. The administration’s proactive approach is deeply appreciated and has rekindled our optimism for the future.
“Furthermore; on Monday the 15th day of April, 2024, a meeting was hosted to this effect by the Commissioner for Children,Gender and Social Development Affairs (Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Enih) at the Ministry’s Complex with Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD) Enugu State Chapter and other Individualized Organizations of Persons With Disabilities including the Disability Foundations and NGOs to discuss the importance of unification of the State Disability Community under one umbrella body.
“The Commissioner emphasized the need for unity, highlighting that the proliferation of request memos from different NGOs and disability groups to the Government of the state have been counterproductive, jeopardizing the opportunities meant for Persons with Disabilities, and as a result, receiving little or no attention on disability matters from the government.
“After deliberations, the Enugu State Government through the office of the Hon. Commissioner for Children, Gender and Social Development Affairs ordered that (JONAPWD) Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities is officially recognized as the sole umbrella body of persons with disabilities in Enugu State, being a National Organization of Persons with Disabilities (OPD). Consequently, every other organizations of persons with disabilities including JONAPWD cluster groups are directed to fully align with the JONAPWD structure, through which their requests will be communicated to the government. Therefore, no more proliferation of request memos to the Enugu State Government henceforth by the ought to be partners.
“Additionally, all OPDs and NGOs are required to officially register with the Ministry of Gender Affairs for partnership purposes, ensuring a cohesive and collaborative approach to addressing the needs and concerns of PWDs in the state.
“This decision aims to streamline communication, enhance coordination, and strengthen the representation of PWDs to the government. We believe that through this unified approach, we will be better positioned to advocate for the rights and support of the disability community in Enugu State.
“We appreciate the cooperation of every organization and foundations concerned, and their commitments to this unified vision and look forward to working together for the betterment of all PWDs in our state. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Ministry of Gender Affairs for further clarification or Enugu State JONAPWD leadership.
“Signed: Comrade Onyebuchi Mba, Chairman
For the Executive, Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD) Enugu State Chapter. Phone: 07034441164 & 07038977557″
