Gov. Okpebholo Pledges Continued Implementation of Disability Laws

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fully implementing disability laws to ensure that persons living with disabilities receive the support and protection they deserve.

Speaking in Benin City at an event marking the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD 2025), the governor underscored the importance of promoting inclusion across all sectors of the state’s economy.

As part of efforts to improve the welfare of persons with disabilities, Governor Okpebholo had earlier inaugurated the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities (EDSCPD) on March 26, 2025—an important step aimed at strengthening advocacy and addressing the needs of vulnerable groups.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Musa Ikilor, the governor assured attendees that the Commission would be adequately empowered to drive inclusion in government programmes and policies.

Drawing from moral teachings in both the Holy Bible and the Quran, the governor emphasized that discrimination against persons with disabilities is condemned by all major religions. He urged citizens to uphold positive values and ensure that disability laws are respected and applied in daily life.

“Beyond laws, people need to connect and understand that persons living with disabilities must be respected. As a society, we must care for persons with disabilities in our midst, ensure they are considered in all we do, and support their wellbeing,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo further appealed for stronger community support systems that guarantee access to public buildings, employment opportunities, and a society that genuinely cares for the vulnerable.

“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 (JONAPWD) 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 persons with disabilities 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.

Also speaking, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Edesiri Anani Okpebholo—represented by the Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu—affirmed that the administration firmly believes that disability is not inability, and that every citizen deserves a seat at the governance table. She noted that the establishment of the disability commission stands as a landmark achievement reflecting the government’s commitment to leaving no one behind.

She further assured that the Office of the First Lady would continue to champion initiatives promoting education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities. She called on stakeholders to partner with the government to build a more inclusive Edo State, where inclusion moves beyond rhetoric to become a lived reality.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to Governor Okpebholo, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, and the SSG in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the welfare of vulnerable citizens in the state.