As Nigeria joins the global community in celebrating World Disabilities Day, Hon. Caleb Onyema Ani, Chairman of Enugu South Local Government Area, has issued a powerful call to action. He urged individuals with disabilities to shatter stereotypes and recognize that their differences are not limitations, but rather unique strengths. “There is ability in every disability,” he emphasized, inspiring a new era of inclusivity and empowerment.
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The Chairman unveiled a groundbreaking initiative, underscoring his administration’s dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility. This pioneering effort aligns seamlessly with Governor Peter Mbah’s visionary blueprint, aiming to revolutionize the healthcare landscape and ensure quality services reach every corner of the community. The Council Boss made this known during the free medical outreach in collaboration with Physiotherapy Department of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital UNTH, Ituku ozalla, Enugu on Tuesday, in Commemoration of the 2024 World Disability Day, themed “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future”.
By providing free medical services, Ani aims to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and empowerment for persons with disabilities. Also, Commissioner Health, Professor Emmanuel Obi, represented by the Director Medical Services, Dr. Samuel Egwuonwu emphasized the devastating impact of quackery in the health sector, which has tragically claimed millions of lives, and commended the council for prioritizing trained and qualified medical practitioners, which he says sets a shining example for other council bosses to follow.
Honourable Commissioner for Children, Gender affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih praised Hon. Caleb Ani for embodying the vision of Governor Peter Mbah by providing mobility aid to people with disabilities, adding that this gesture fulfills Ani’s promise to the people of Enugu South for inclusive governance, demonstrating his commitment to creating a more equitable society.
In her address Head of department Physiotherapy department unit UNTH, Mrs. Chinwe Obiekwe, and representative of the collaborating partner, lauded the empowerment initiative as a testament to Enugu State’s commitment to democracy and inclusivity. With passion and conviction, she encouraged individuals with disabilities to see this exercise as empowerment not a charity, saying: “Your disability is not a limitation! You have the power to become whatever you aspire to be. Believe in yourself, and never let your disability define your potential.”
The event was a hive of activity, with a wide range of empowering initiatives that transformed the lives of individuals with disabilities. These initiatives included free medical healthcare services, providing vital check-ups and treatments, distribution of life-changing mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, clutches, and walking sticks, and the provision of essential assistive devices, including lenses and hearing aids, to enhance daily living.
The highlight of the event was a moment of pure joy and transformation, as Council Chairman Honourable Caleb Ani announced the sponsorship of Master Ifechukwu Ekwe’s education henceforth, to further empower Ifechukwu, the Chairman also presented him with free clutches, symbolizing a major step towards independence and mobility.
Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, some of the beneficiaries of the empowerment initiative, Sunday Nnyammah, Mercy Uzoamaka, Stella Okafor and Chijioke Ebere couldn’t help but express their heartfelt appreciation to the Council Chairman, Hon. Ani. With beaming smiles, they thanked him for his kindness and generosity, which has brought hope and transformation to their lives.
The event was attended by esteemed individuals, including Hon. Anthony Egbo, deputy Chairman Enugu South and Chairman of the Outreach Organising Committee, Secretary of the Council Barr. Kenneth Nnyammah, Leader Enugu South legislative Arm, Hon. John Egbo, Chairman House Committee on Heath Hon. Michael Ogbodo.
Others in attendance are the Enugu South PDP Woman Leader, Hon. Nkem Nnamani, Mrs. Rita Emeh deputy director Physiotherapy department UNTH, workers from various departments such as physiotherapy, oral health, eye optician, ear, nose, and throat, as well as nurses and other healthcare professionals, were in attendance.
Enugu South Media