First Lady Priscilla Otti Reaffirms Commitment To Inclusion, Stands With Visually Impaired In Abia

Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, wife of the Governor of Abia State, has reaffirmed her administration’s unwavering commitment to inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities as Abia joined the rest of the world to commemorate the International White Cane Safety Day.

The event, which held at Abia Hotel, Aba, brought together members of the visually impaired community, government officials, and disability advocates to celebrate the resilience, talents, and achievements of persons who are blind, while also emphasizing the white cane as a universal symbol of independence, mobility, and dignity.

Represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs. Chinenye Nwaka, Mrs. Otti said the Governor Alex Otti–led administration is intentional about creating a society where no one is left behind. She explained that the state government is developing inclusive policies and social support systems that enable persons living with disabilities to participate fully in public life and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the state.

Mrs. Otti recalled the recent distribution of 100 white canes to visually impaired persons in the state, noting that the gesture was not an act of charity, but an investment in confidence, independence, and safe mobility. She called on community leaders, organizations, and members of the public to champion inclusion and remove stigmas that limit the potentials of the visually impaired.

In his remarks, Mr. Isaac Okwudiri, Chairman of the National Association of the Blind (NAB), Abia State Chapter, commended Mrs. Otti for her consistent support to the blind community. He described her as a dependable partner in advocacy for accessibility and inclusion, while calling for a socially conscious society that recognizes the abilities and contributions of visually impaired persons.

Delivering a lecture at the event, Chief Agilemchukwu Cornelius highlighted the importance of the white cane in promoting safety, autonomy, and active participation in society. He said the tool is more than a mobility aid, as it symbolizes empowerment, visibility, and equal opportunity.

Also speaking, Miss Chioma Kalu, a member of the association, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Otti for her generosity and encouragement, describing her as a “pillar of strength” to the visually impaired.
“Her kindness strengthens our spirit,” she said. “It reminds us that we are seen, valued, and capable of achieving greatness.”

The event featured talent displays by members of the visually impaired community, including musical performances and exhibitions of handcrafted items, demonstrating creativity, resilience, and ability in every disability.

The celebration ended on a powerful note, reinforcing the message that in Abia State, inclusion is not just a government policy, it is a shared responsibility and collective value embraced by all.