International Association of World Peace Advocates Celebrates PWDs ln Lagos.
………As Hon Okey Joe advocates for inclusivity of persons with disabilities in politics and governance
Emmanuel lkpeama
The International Association of World Peace Advocates, Lagos State Chapter,Nigeria led by Her Eminence Amb (Dr). Chinaza Jennifer Ugboaja and Heart of Gold Charity foundations are truly making a mark in style.
In commemoration of the International day of persons with disabilities, the association called on the government and kind-hearted Nigerians to support humanitarian services for those living with disabilities.
This call was made by the National Secretary of the association, Her Eminence Amb (Dr). Chinaza Jennifer Ugboaja during a programme organized for people with disabilities where over 300 persons living with disabilities, 150 widows, and 3 orphanage homes benefited in Lagos.
The event, which included widows and orphans welfare programme and special thanksgiving, was made possible by the collaborative efforts of Heart of Gold Charity Foundations, Peculiar Voice of Hope, International Face of Integrity (Nigeria Chapter) IAWPA, and Chicason Group.
Investigator news reports that the International day of persons with disabilities is observed annually on December 3, to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development.
This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” highlights the importance of empowering persons with disabilities to take leadership roles in promoting inclusivity and sustainability.
Investigator news gathered that the event coincided with the first presentation of the public appearance of His Eminence, Lord Mayor Alexander Chika Okafor, OFR as the International Lord Mayor of Peace.
His Eminence, Lord Mayor Alexander Chika Okafor, OFR, is the Chairman/Executive of Chikason Group of Companies and the chairman of the occasion ably represented by his personal assistant, Dr. Tony Alaku who expressed his happiness to have first hand contact with these ‘special people’ and it has afforded us the opportunity to provide our shoulders for them to lean.
Mrs. Uchenna Ofomata convener of Voices of Hope said she has noted the various needs of the vulnerable PWDs and that this will proper her Foundation to plan and do more next year.
Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi MHR, Oshodi/Isolo, Lagos who was represented by his SA, Media, and Communications, Adm. Mazi Chuks Nwosu, advocated for inclusivity of persons with disabilities in politics and governance, stressing that physical disabilities do not equate to mental or intellectual disabilities.
The lawmaker cited the example of para-athletes who won laurels in areas where able-bodied persons failed. He emphasized that persons with disabilities should not be marginalized in the workplace, education and employment.
“The theme of IDPD 2024, amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,emphasizes the crucial role persons with disabilities play in shaping a more equitable world”.
“To achieve this, we must prioritize accessibility, inclusivity, and equity. We must work tirelessly to promote accessible infrastructure, inclusive education, employment, and healthcare systems, and support disability-led organizations.”
“In Nigeria, we have made progress in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities. The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and the National Disability Rights Commission Act, 2018, are notable examples.”
“However, there is still much work to be done. Let us recommit ourselves to creating a world where persons with disabilities are valued, empowered, and recognized as equal members of society.”
“Let us strive for a future where accessibility, inclusion, and equality are fundamental principles guiding our actions.”he submitted
Other dignitaries in attendance included Prof. Mrs. Ojiavo, among others
