The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has donated mobility aids and supportive devices to persons living with disabilities in Bayelsa State, located in Nigeria’s South-South region.
The donation was made during an awareness programme held at the NDDC Bayelsa State office in Yenagoa.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, represented by the Director of the Bayelsa State Office, Engr. Godknows Alamiesiegha encouraged people with disabilities to remain positive and not view their condition as a limitation.
“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 said.
Dr Ogbuku assured that the Commission would continue to prioritise the welfare of persons with disabilities in its development programmes.
“The NDDC Board and Management recognise your challenges, and we always plan for you,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, the Technical Adviser on NDDC to the Bayelsa State Governor, Mr Nyenye Matthias, applauded the initiative, noting its significance.
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“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 stated.
During a session on mental health awareness, the lead facilitator, Dr Daniel Smile George, highlighted the importance of recognising mental health conditions as a form of disability.
“Raising awareness about mental health will encourage individuals to seek help early, thereby reducing mental health disorders within the society,” he emphasised.
The Chairman of the National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Bayelsa State, Mr Ekpomokumor Mayor, expressed gratitude on behalf of the group.
“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,” he said.
The commission distributed a range of mobility and supportive aids, including wheelchairs, crutches, walking frames, aids for the visually impaired, hearing aids, and visual support devices.