The Abia State Government has directed that all public buildings be equipped with lifts and other accessibility features to accommodate persons with disabilities.
This was disclosed by the Chairman of the Abia State Disability Commission (ASDC), Mr. David Anyaele, during a capacity-building workshop for permanent secretaries on the Abia State Disability Law and disability inclusion, held in Umuahia.
Anyaele revealed that the State Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, has already begun efforts to make the State Secretariat and other government buildings accessible, in line with Governor Alex Otti’s directive. He urged permanent secretaries to integrate disability concerns into their ministry budgets and take active roles in promoting inclusion.
“Commissioners and political appointees come and go, but permanent secretaries remain the engine room of government,” Anyaele said. “They must ensure that inclusive policies are sustained and that persons with disabilities are not excluded.”
He identified various barriers affecting persons with disabilities, including environmental, institutional, attitudinal, and communication challenges. He emphasized the need for accessible communication tools like braille materials for the visually impaired and sign language interpreters for the hearing impaired.
Anyaele also called on MDAs to appoint disability focal persons and ensure facilities, such as lifts, come with audio and braille features. He added that special parking spaces would be designated for persons with disabilities, with penalties for violators.
“Environmental designs must be inclusive,” he stated. “Multi-storey buildings must have lifts, ramps should be fitted with handrails, and accessible toilets must be standard. Information and communication are vital in ensuring participation.”
He thanked Governor Otti for supporting the Commission and approving the training workshop for public officials, noting that it reflects the administration’s commitment to disability inclusion.
Also speaking at the event, the State Coordinator of Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC), Mr. Peter—represented by Onyedikachi Odi—praised the Commission’s efforts, stating that the implementation of the Abia State Disability Law and disability-inclusive budgeting marks a vital step toward inclusive governance.
He reminded participants that permanent secretaries, as key leaders, have the responsibility to ensure that no one is left behind in the delivery of government services.
“The Disability Law provides a framework for building a more inclusive society,” he said. “Through this training, the Commission is empowering ministries to integrate disability issues in their policies and budgets.”
In her remarks, Lady Oge Maduka, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, appreciated the insights from the workshop and pledged to apply them in her ministry.
Barrister Chibuzo Ehiemere, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, described the workshop as eye-opening. “We leave here enriched. Our budgets must now reflect the needs of people with disabilities,” she said, also commending Governor Otti’s commitment to inclusion.
The workshop ended with a shared commitment among government officials to mainstream disability inclusion in public service delivery throughout Abia State.
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