In recognition of the nation’s shared responsibility to promote inclusivity, the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) has gifted the sum of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (N200,000) as Business Re-capitalization Grant to 250 Persons with Disabilities in Cross River State.
Speaking during the event held at the office of the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, to commemorate the World Disability Day, the First Lady, and National Chairman of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Senator Oluremi Tinubu inferred that “a truly inclusive society is built when we stand together, creating opportunities that empower everyone to contribute their unique gifts to our collective progress,” adding that “Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully.”
The President’s Wife who was represented by the Cross River State RHI Coordinator and Wife of the Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, reiterated that the event commemorated simultaneously across the 36 State and the Federal Capital Territory is to celebrate and encourage the community of Persons with Disability and to support small business owners among them to recapitalize their existing businesses and strengthen their means of livelihood.
According to her, “this programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which seeks to promote inclusive growth and shared prosperity by ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind, especially those whose needs are often overlooked.”
She encouraged beneficiaries of the Two Hundred Thousand Naira to make good use of the opportunity and make it a seed that grows into something greater and a business that sustains them and their family.
In a welcome address, the Commissioner for Social Welfare, Cross River State, Bishop Margaret Ene Ita informed that the World Disability Day is set aside to “promote the rights, dignity and overall wellbeing of Persons with Disabilities in all spheres of life” and provides an opportunity for stakeholders to deepen their understanding of the challenges Persons with disabilities face and renew collective commitment to building an equitable society where no one is left behind.
Bishop Ene Ita stated that the 2025 theme of “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing social Progress,” resonates deeply with the Renewed Hope Vison and the People First mantra of the State, adding that it “underscores the urgent need for strengthened accessibility and ensure People with Disability have equal opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of our State.”
Citing barriers in form of stigma, limited access to healthcare, education and lots more encountered by Persons with Disability, the Social Welfare Commissioner pointed out that “addressing this gap is not just a matter of policy. It is a moral responsibility and a critical step towards attaining sustainable development.”
The Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disability (JONAPWD), Cross River State Chapter, Prince Ekpenyong Essien and its Secretary, Dr. Michael Obije, in their goodwill message, lauded Bishop Eyoanwan Otu for instituting peace among Persons with Disabilities in the State. They emphasized that that the disability community in the State has known peace, progress and unity through the involvement of the Governor’s Wife, adding that she has shown them unequivocal love.
Member of the Disability Rights Commissions, Cross River State, Hon. Augusta Bassey appreciated the Governor’s Wife for her love and commitment to the wellbeing of the disability community, noting that the disability community in the State now have their hope restored and renewed.
Also speaking, the Branch Manager, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Calabar Road, Dr. Samuel Thomas, appreciated Bishop Eyoanwan Otu for her passion to ensure that the disability community is empowered.
He commended her for ‘teaching them how to fish, rather than giving them fish,’ pledging the commitment of the bank to continually work with her office to ensure financial inclusion for the disability community.
The event climaxed with the distribution of wheelchairs, clutches, monetary gift, wrapper, rice and other food stuff to the disability community in celebration of the 2025 World Disability Day.
Esther Okoi
