WHITE CANE DAY: Otti Assures Persons With Disability Of Greater Attention In His Administration
The Governor, Dr Alex Otti says his administration will continue to give greater attention to persons living with disability in the state.
Governor Otti stated this while addressing virtually impaired and physically challenged persons at Government House Umuahia as part of activities to mark this years International White Cane Safety Day Celebration.
Governor Otti represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba disclosed that the present administration in the state is a sensitive and compassionate one, which is the reason why several agencies have been created to cater for the vulnerable groups and persons living with disability across the state.
He described the theme of this years International White Cane Safety Day celebration, ” Removing the Barriers that Impede the Rehabilitation and Total Independence of Persons with Visual Impairment” as apt, and commended the first lady of the state, Mrs Priscilla Otti and the ministry of Women Affairs for their untiring efforts at ensuring the group continues to get their pride of place in the state.
In their speeches, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons with Disability, Mr David Anyaele and his Vulnerable Group and Poverty Alleviation counterpart, Mrs Ifeoma Thomas described the White Cane Safety Day as an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of the white cane as a symbol of independence and mobility for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.
Contributing, the State Chairman, Association of Blind Persons, Mr. Isaac Williams, said the day also emphasizes the need for pedestrian safety and respect for the rights of people with visual disabilities as well as serves as an opportunity to educate the public about the challenges faced by individuals with visual impairments and ways to promote inclusion and accessibility in society.
Our correspondent reports that the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Chinedu Ekeke, Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Commerce and Industry, Chief Nwaka Inem, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Due Process, Dr Oluebube Chukwu among other top government officials were present during the meeting.
