NEWS
Aba North Council Boss, Hon. Timothy Kalu, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Development as It Marks 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities
As nations across the world commemorate the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the Aba North Local Government Area has restated its unwavering commitment to building an inclusive, accessible, and disability-responsive society, one aligned with the transformative agenda of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR.
The global theme for this year, “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress,” resonates strongly with ongoing reforms in Abia State, where Governor Otti has championed progressive disability policies aimed at empowerment rather than sympathy. His administration has strengthened the Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons, expanded digital inclusion programmes, and appointed competent advocates, including Hon. David Anyaele, as Special Assistant to the Governor on Persons Living with Disabilities.
Building on this state-wide momentum, the Executive Chairman of Aba North LGA, Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke, highlighted the council’s strides in disability inclusion.
Earlier in the year, Aba North hosted the inaugural Abia State Disability Day, an event designed to amplify the voices and leadership of persons with disabilities (PWDs). During the event, Hon. Iheke shared a personal childhood experience that affirmed his belief that talent and excellence are never limited by physical challenges, a conviction that continues to guide his administration’s policies.
Following that landmark event, the council rolled out targeted empowerment initiatives for the disability community, including cash support packages and priority access to the council’s free ICT empowerment programme to advance digital inclusion.
In reinforcing its commitment, the council ensured that its administrative doors remain open to provide support and resolve challenges faced by PWDs. This resolve was once again demonstrated during the inauguration of the new leadership of the National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (NAPWPD), Aba North Chapter. Represented by his Deputy Chairman, Hon. Christian Chijioke Ogbuisi, the Executive Chairman underscored that in Aba North, “every disability is ability waiting for opportunity.”
The LGA also showcased its inclusive employment practices, citing the exceptional performance of a physically challenged staff member serving as a typist in the council, a testament to its belief that empowerment drives excellence.
Hon. Iheke emphasized that Aba North is home to highly skilled individuals within the PWD community, including graduates, artisans, professionals, and innovators who require access and opportunities rather than sympathy. Supporting them, he stressed, is both a moral duty and a strategic investment in equitable development.
He called on government institutions, community leaders, organisations, and residents to collaborate in ensuring that persons with disabilities:
1. Have equal opportunity,
2. Are actively engaged in economic activities,
3. Are valued contributors to governance and development, and
4. Live with dignity, accessibility, and full societal inclusion.
In his concluding remarks, the Executive Chairman saluted the resilience, creativity, and spirit of persons with disabilities, affirming that both Aba North and Abia State stand firmly with them in the journey toward a jus
t and inclusive society.