Inclusivity/Gender
Cross River deaf community hails Otu for disability commission appointments
Written By: Udo Inobeme
09 Sep 2025 03:44 AM
Calabar, Cross River – The Cross River State Deaf Community has expressed profound gratitude to Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for his recent appointment of members to the State Disability Commission, hailing the move as a testament to his commitment to advancing the welfare and rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
In a statement released Monday, Comrade Anthony Oduyaya, State Chairman of the Cross River State Association of the Deaf (CRAD), praised the governor for prioritizing inclusivity through the establishment of the commission.
“Governor Otu’s action reflects a deep dedication to ensuring that PWDs are not left behind in Cross River’s development agenda,” Oduyaya said, emphasizing that the appointments align with the governor’s “People First” vision.
The formation of the State Disability Commission, first announced in December 2023 during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, marks a significant milestone in addressing challenges faced by PWDs, including access to education, healthcare, and employment.
The recent appointments to the commission are seen as a fulfillment of Otu’s promise to create a platform for advocacy and policy implementation for PWDs.
Oduyaya noted that the commission’s establishment will empower the deaf community and other PWDs by providing a structured avenue to address their concerns.
“This is a bold step toward equity and inclusion,” he said, calling on the new commission members to engage with grassroots organizations to ensure impactful outcomes.
The Deaf Community’s appreciation comes amid broader efforts by the Otu administration to promote social welfare, including assistive device distribution and skill acquisition programs led by the state’s first lady, Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu.
As the commission begins its work, advocates are optimistic that it will drive policies to enhance accessibility and opportunities for PWDs across Cross River State.
In a statement released Monday, Comrade Anthony Oduyaya, State Chairman of the Cross River State Association of the Deaf (CRAD), praised the governor for prioritizing inclusivity through the establishment of the commission.
“Governor Otu’s action reflects a deep dedication to ensuring that PWDs are not left behind in Cross River’s development agenda,” Oduyaya said, emphasizing that the appointments align with the governor’s “People First” vision.
The formation of the State Disability Commission, first announced in December 2023 during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, marks a significant milestone in addressing challenges faced by PWDs, including access to education, healthcare, and employment.
The recent appointments to the commission are seen as a fulfillment of Otu’s promise to create a platform for advocacy and policy implementation for PWDs.
Oduyaya noted that the commission’s establishment will empower the deaf community and other PWDs by providing a structured avenue to address their concerns.
“This is a bold step toward equity and inclusion,” he said, calling on the new commission members to engage with grassroots organizations to ensure impactful outcomes.
The Deaf Community’s appreciation comes amid broader efforts by the Otu administration to promote social welfare, including assistive device distribution and skill acquisition programs led by the state’s first lady, Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu.
As the commission begins its work, advocates are optimistic that it will drive policies to enhance accessibility and opportunities for PWDs across Cross River State.
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