The Bayelsa State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, has been recognised for his commitment to disability inclusion following his assent to the law establishing the Bayelsa State Agency for Persons with Disabilities.
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The award, presented by the Centre for Disability Rights, Empowerment and Development (CDRED) at the conference hall of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development in Yenagoa, was received on the Governor’s behalf by the Honourable Commissioner, Hon. Joanah Gigi.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Hon. Gigi expressed appreciation to CDRED for the recognition and commended the organisation for its constructive advocacy and partnership with the government in advancing the rights, welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Bayelsa State.
She emphasised the importance of translating government policies and disability-related laws into practical interventions that would improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
She assured the organisation of the State Government’s continued commitment to inclusive governance and equal opportunities for all.
Presenting the award, the Executive Director and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of CDRED, Mr. Godsgift Fekosufa, commended Governor Diri for what he described as his compassionate leadership and sustained support for the organisation and persons with disabilities in the state.
Fekosufa said the award was in recognition of the Governor’s assent to the Bayelsa State Agency for Persons with Disabilities Law, 2026, the appointment of more than 40 persons with disabilities to public offices, and the employment of more than 20 persons with disabilities into the Bayelsa State Civil Service, among other interventions aimed at promoting equal opportunities.
He added that the appointment of Hon. Joanah Gigi as Commissioner demonstrated Governor Diri’s understanding of the kind of leadership required in a ministry responsible for addressing humanitarian concerns and the needs of vulnerable groups.
Fekosufa also acknowledged the Governor’s compassion towards vulnerable persons, including people affected by leprosy who have been abandoned by their families and society.
He noted that the administration’s interventions had contributed to removing barriers and creating greater opportunities for vulnerable groups.
While commending the Governor for his achievements, Fekosufa appealed for the expeditious implementation of the Bayelsa State Agency for Persons with Disabilities Law, 2026.
He stressed that the law should translate into concrete benefits for persons with disabilities through appointments, employment, empowerment, accessibility and rehabilitation programmes.
The presentation was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Madam Tonye E. Koroye; the Director of Rehabilitation, Idumangi Tarinyo Joy; other directors; and members of the CDRED delegation, including the Secretary-General, Mr. Igbogikimi Edward Osain, and the Ogbia Coordinator, Ma-Atein Isaac.
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