Since 1992, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) has been annually observed on 3 December around the world. This is in line with the United Nation’s Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goal which pledges to leave no one behind
The day is set aside to
– Reflect: to look at how far we have gone as individuals and as a society
– Celebrate: to celebrate the notable achievements of persons with disabilities in society
– Learn: to create more awareness on the rights of the person with disabilities and the benefits of inclusive societies where everyone has equal rights
– Take Action: where every stakeholder is committed to taking actions that encourage the creation of an inclusive society for everyone; PWDs and Non-PWDs.

In commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2019, the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) kick-started the annual Disability Awareness Week programme with media engagement at Vision Africa Radio on the 26th of November 2019. The radio programme was to create awareness for the International Day for Persons with Disabilities. A Press Conference was held on the 27th of November 2019 at the Nigeria Union of Journalist (NUJ) office in Umuahia, Abia State. Where Mr. David Anayaele (Executive Director of CCD), represented by Miss Uloma Uwadoka (Assistant Programme Officer) read a press statement during the press conference.

There was also a rally on the 28th of November 2019, which it’s aimed at creating more awareness about the International Day of Person with Disabilities. As well as to sensitize the general public on the importance of an inclusive society that can be achieved with the full implementation of the Nigerian Disability Act.