JONAPWD Engages Guber Candidates on Disability Inclusion at Anambra Governorship Debate

By Chidinma Ajemba

The leadership of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State Chapter, yesterday in Awka joined other stakeholders at the Anambra Governorship Debate organized by Creative Minds Center For Youth and Community Development in partnership with Active Citizen Media.

The debate, which provided a platform for governorship hopefuls to share their plans for the state, had candidates from the NNPP, AAC, and Boot parties in attendance.

During the session, JONAPWD executives took the opportunity to interact with the candidates and find out what each of their parties had in their manifestos for persons with disabilities in the state. They also raised key issues around the full implementation of the Anambra State Disability Rights Law (ASDRL) 2018, especially in the areas of transportation, education, and health.

The association further appealed for a more inclusive government that recognizes the competence of qualified persons with disabilities through political appointments and active participation in governance. They also emphasized the need for inclusive education to ensure that no learner is left behind.

In response, the candidates pledged to prioritize disability inclusion in their administrations. They promised to strengthen social welfare programs for PWDs, improve accessibility in public transportation, and ensure full enforcement of the ASDRL 2018. They also assured that qualified persons with disabilities would be considered for political appointments.

The engagement was a meaningful step toward ensuring that disability issues remain part of the broader governance conversation in Anambra State, as JONAPWD continues to advocate for equal opportunities and an inclusive society.