Physically challenged persons in Abia State have called on the government to initiate more empowerment programmes to encourage them to be self-reliant.
They made this known in Umuahia, the state capital, through their spokesperson Mr James Daniel who hinted that the provision would enable persons living with disability to make meaningful contributions to the socio-economic growth of the state.
“We want to appeal to the state government to address the following issues, the provision of favourable conditions of work and availability of vocational training for physically challenged persons.
“Let me say that the government should also consider provision of employment opportunities, promotion of entrepreneurship programmes, as well as access to affordable medical care for us.
“I want to commend the state government for its efforts at promoting the cause of the physically challenged and giving them a sense of belonging”.
On his part, the State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu reiterated the commitment of the government in ensuring that the provision of facilities for the physically challenged in public buildings.
He noted that efforts are being put in place to make sure their needs are promptly attended to.