Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the full implemention of the disability laws in a bid to ensuring that persons living with disabilities receive the necessary support and protection from the government.
The governor, who reiterated the commitment pledge at an event held in Benin City, the state capital, to mark the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD 2025), emphasised the importance of promoting inclusion across all sectors of the economy.
In demonstration of the administration’s dedication to improving the welfare of persons with disabilities, Governor Okpebholo had earlier inaugurated the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (EDSCPD) on March 26, 2025, a proactive step to strengthen advocacy and address the needs of vulnerable groups in the state.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Musa Ikilor, the governor assured that the Commission would be empowered to effectively drive inclusion in government programmes and policies.
The governor, who alluded moral teachings from the Holy Bible and the Quran, stressed that discrimination against persons with disabilities is condemned by both religious doctrines.
He urged citizens to imbibe positive values and ensure that the disability laws are respected and implemented in everyday life.
“Beyond laws, people need to connect and understand that persons living with disabilities have to be respected. As a people and as a society, we need to care for persons with disabilities in our midst, and ensure they are considered in what we do and do our best to support their wellbeing,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo also appealed to citizens to build strong support systems that ensure persons with disabilities have access to public buildings, employment opportunities, and a society that truly cares for the vulnerable.
“I want to assure the commission that the Edo State Government will continue to support all persons with disabilities and tackle the challenges they face,” he added.
The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Edo State, Ann Ojugo, called for practical inclusion in key sectors such as healthcare and education.
She commended the government for empowering over 200 PWDs with N200,000 each to start small businesses.
“We want inclusion in our homes, schools, health sector, and the entire economy. Inclusion should be practical, not just on paper,” she said.
The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Edesiri Anani Okpebholo, who was represented by the Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, stated that the Okpebholo-led administration believed firmly that disability is not inability and that every citizen deserved a seat at the governance table.
She noted that the creation of the disability commission remained a landmark accomplishment reflecting the government’s commitment to leaving no one behind.
This was just as she assured that the Office of the First Lady would continue to champion initiatives that promote education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities.
The first lady urged stakeholders to partner with the government to build a proud and inclusive Edo State, where inclusion moves beyond rhetoric and becomes a practical reality.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to Governor Okpebholo, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady and the SSG in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the welfare of vulnerable citizens in the state.
