Edo harps on quality education, employment opportunities for visually impaired persons

The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to providing quality education and employment opportunities for the visually impaired persons in the state.

This was just as the government further pledged to protect, uphold, and give special consideration to the well-being and livelihood of the visually impaired citizens and residents of the state.

This was contained in a statement signed by Friday Aghedo, the Chief Press Secretary to the deputy governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, and made available to newsmen in Benin on Tuesday.

According to the statement, the state deputy governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa made the commitments when he hosted members of the Nigeria Association of the Blind, Edo state Chapter, led by its Chairman, Evang. Lucky Imafidon, who were in the Government House, Benin City, on Tuesday.

The deputy governor highlighted the importance of the virtually challenged persons and their significant contributions to the economic development of the state.

According to him, “I am so delighted to have you here today. We understand the challenges you are facing. We acknowledge that visually impaired persons are a significant part of our society.

“The Edo State Government affirms its commitment to quality education and employment opportunities for visually impaired persons.

“As the government , we are committed, and we will stand by you as you go on with your business and the different activities of your life.

“We understand the role of government in a very crucial aspect like this. I want you to know that the governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo is a listening governor, and by the grace of God, we will have the opportunity later on, to discuss this visit, and he will invite you for a meeting.

“I want you to know that you are of priority to us as a government, and we are going to match words with action.

“So, on behalf of the government, and the good people of Edo state, I want to thank you for this visit, and pray that God Almighty will first and foremost meet your needs while the state government will do its part.” Idahosa reassured.

Earlier in his address, the chairman of the association, Imafidon, congratulated Idahosa and Okpebholo on their electoral victory, noting that the association was optimistic that the Monday Okpebholo led administration would pay special attention to the challenges, needs, and yearnings of the blind and visually impaired citizens and residents of the state.

Also, the General Secretary of the association, Akhabue Matthew, commended the deputy governor for prioritising and awarding the association a special recognition just within a few months of assumption of office.