World Disability Day: Imo JONAPWD Chairman,Ekwelem Applauds Governor’s Wife for Empowering Members
By Kelechi Ugo
The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Imo State Chapter, Barr. Chidubem Uzodinma Ekwelem, has lauded the wife of the Imo State Governor, Her Excellency Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, for empowering 250 members of the association with ₦200,000 each.
The empowerment took place on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the Imo State Government House, Owerri, as part of activities marking the 2025 World Disability Day celebration.
Speaking to newsmen after the event, Barr. Ekwelem expressed deep appreciation for what he described as an unprecedented gesture towards persons with disabilities in the State.
According to him, “‘Mama Imo’ has done exceptionally well. This has nothing to do with party politics. It is purely good governance, and she has demonstrated what many before her could not. A total of 250 JONAPWD members went home with ₦200,000 each, and we are profoundly grateful.”
He added that the initiative is expected to significantly boost economic empowerment among persons with disabilities, noting that many beneficiaries could become successful entrepreneurs before the end of the coming year.
Barr. Ekwelem also urged members of the association to remain peaceful, productive, and law-abiding citizens, while extending his season’s greetings to Imo residents.
He disclosed that the beneficiaries were carefully selected from all 27 Local Government Areas of Imo State to ensure fairness and wide-reaching impact.
