The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has donated supportive aids and mobility devices to persons living with disabilities in Bayelsa State.
Speaking at an awareness programme organised for people with disabilities at the NDDC Bayelsa State office in Yenagoa, the Commission’s Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, urged persons with disabilities to maintain a positive outlook and not feel inferior due to their conditions.
In a statement issued by Seledi Thompson-Wakama,
Director, Corporate Affairs of the commission noted that Dr. Ogbuku, who was represented by the Director of the Bayelsa State Office, Engr. Godknows Alamiesiegha, emphasised the importance of supporting individuals living with challenges. He advised, “Life is a privilege, and you should be proud of yourself. NDDC is committed to inclusivity and the social welfare of all persons in the Niger Delta region. This is not the first time we have supported persons with disabilities, and it certainly will not be the last. We cherish and love you, and we urge you to persevere because where there is a will, there is a way.”
He further assured that the Commission would continue to prioritise the welfare of persons with disabilities in all its developmental programmes. “The NDDC Board and Management recognise your challenges, and we always plan for you,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, Technical Adviser on NDDC to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Hon. Nyenye Kuro Matthias, acknowledged the significance of the initiative. He noted that it was the first time persons with disabilities had come together in such large numbers to benefit from a well-structured programme of this kind. “We deeply appreciate this gesture from NDDC. We assure you that the supportive aids will be used well. We urge the NDDC to consider PWDs in their youth and women’s training programmes and employment opportunities,” he remarked.
Delivering a mental health awareness talk, the lead facilitator, Dr. Daniel Smile George, highlighted the importance of recognising mental health as a form of disability. He referenced global statistics indicating the increasing prevalence of mental health conditions. “Raising awareness about mental health will encourage individuals to seek help early, thereby reducing mental health disorders within the society,” he stressed.
The Chairman of the National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Bayelsa State, Mr. Ekpomokumor Mayor, expressed gratitude to the NDDC for its consistent support. “We thank the NDDC for its continued support to our members. We are grateful to the medical personnel and support staff for all their contributions to ensure the execution of this programme,” he said.
One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Dennis Stephen, who received a wheelchair, shared his appreciation. “Before today, moving around was a challenge. NDDC has given me a new opportunity to regain my mobility, and for that, I am grateful.”
The NDDC distributed a variety of mobility and supportive aids, including wheelchairs, crutches, walking frames, aids for the visually impaired, hearing aids, and other assistive devices.
