The Wife of Abia Governor, Priscilla Otti on Friday distributed 500 bags of 25kg rice and other food items to Persons with Disabilities in the state.

In a speech during the exercise in Umuahia, Mrs Otti said that the initiative was meant to cushion the impact of the current economic challenges faced by PWDs.

The items were part of the Federal Government-sponsored palliative materials to the states in the federation to alleviate the impact of the economic hardship.

Mrs Otti said that the prevailing economic hardship has denied many families the opportunity to enjoy standard living conditions.

She noted that the high cost of food had eliminated the middle class in the country.

“Our aim is to reduce hunger and malnutrition, support volunteerism and community service, promote generosity and kindness,” she said.

According to her, the Federal Government is working with relevant stakeholders in the food value chain to end the challenges of high costs of food.

She commended the Federal Government for extending the gesture to Abia.

“Amidst pain and discomfort, PWDs experience other challenges, such as financial instability, unemployment, high medical expenses, inadequate disability benefits, lack of accessibility in public spaces, stigma and social inclusion.

“Sincerely, I cannot imagine how you cope with the prevailing economic situation but I thank God because most of these challenges are being addressed by the government,” she said.

Mrs Otti said that the state Government was determined to continue to prioritise the affairs of PWDs “because the gains derived from disability inclusion contribute to the development of society.”

The Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Blessing Felix, described the palliative materials as a symbol of government’s recognition of the challenges facing PWDs in their daily life.

Mrs Felix also thanked the Federal Government for its continued commitment to the cause of PWDs in the country.

She said, “Today, as we distribute these essential items provided by the Federal Government, let us remember that this is just a crucial step towards a more robust social support system.’’

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, David Anyaele, said that the government was committed to PWDs’ wellbeing.

Mr Anyaele said that in the past, PWDs either struggled to get government palliatives or protested before they could get anything.

“It is good to note that the story has changed,” he said, pointing out that the needs of PWDs now receive prompt attention by the government.

He urged the citizenry to support the government’s efforts by being law abiding and paying their taxes.

Responding, the state Public Relations Officer of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disability, Blessing Ononogbu, thanked the government for giving PWDs in Abia State a sense of belonging.

(NAN)