Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the full implementation of disability laws to ensure necessary support and protection for persons living with disabilities. This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele.

The governor reiterated the commitment pledge at an event in Benin City marking the International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2025, emphasizing the importance of promoting inclusion across all economic sectors. He highlighted the earlier inauguration of the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities on March 26, 2025, as a proactive step to strengthen advocacy.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Musa Ikilor, the governor assured that the Commission would be empowered to effectively drive inclusion in government programmes and policies. He alluded to moral teachings from the Holy Bible and the Quran, stressing that discrimination against persons with disabilities is condemned by both religious doctrines.

“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,” Governor Okpebholo stated.

He appealed to citizens to build strong support systems ensuring access to public buildings, employment opportunities, and a caring society. “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 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, represented by the Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, stated that the administration believed firmly that disability is not inability. She noted the creation of the disability commission as a landmark accomplishment reflecting the government’s commitment to leaving no one behind, Ebojele stated.

The First Lady urged stakeholders to partner with the government to build an inclusive Edo State where inclusion 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 for their contributions to the welfare of vulnerable citizens. Patrick Akhere Ebojele confirmed the details of the event in the release dated 6-12-25.