Edo State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the protection, inclusion and overall well-being of persons with intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the State.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, gave the assurance when she received a delegation from the Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disability of Nigeria (AIDDN), at the Ministry’s premises in Benin City.
In her remark, Mrs. Ihensekhien commended the Association for its advocacy and reiterated the Edo State Government’s readiness to work closely with vulnerable groups to improve the quality of life for affected individuals.
Mrs. Ihensekhien noted that the Ministry had consistently implemented initiatives designed to uplift vulnerable groups and ensure that no one is marginalized in the State’s development efforts, emphasizing that PWDs will not be left behind in social and economic policies, as they remained key stakeholders in the Edo State’s Government developmental agenda.
She noted that the State Government believes that every individual, regardless of physical or intellectual ability, deserves dignity, equal access to quality education, healthcare and the opportunity to participate meaningfully in society.
Mrs. Ihensekhien encouraged AIDDN to collaborate not only with the Ministry but also with other relevant Ministries and Agencies including Health and Education, to address critical issues such as drug subsidy and inclusive education.
Earlier in his address, the State Coordinator of AIDDN, Mr. Onome Otueroro, outlined the objectives of the courtesy visit to include strengthening partnership with relevant government institutions and advocating for greater inclusion and support for persons with IDD, ensuring that they are not only seen but heard, supported and included in all aspects of society.
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry for the warm reception and expressed optimism that the meeting would mark the beginning of impactful collaboration in the State.
Wisdom Agbonta
Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development
PHOTO CAPTION
Middle: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien; 4th Left: the State Coordinator of AIDDN, Mr. Onome Otueroro, with staff of the Ministry and members of AIDDN during the meeting held at the Ministry’s premises.
