The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has donated 263 wheelchairs and 181 assistive walking devices to the Akwa Ibom State Government, further strengthening ongoing humanitarian efforts.
The official handover ceremony, held on Friday, September 12, at the Women Development Centre, Uyo, drew government officials, church leaders, and key stakeholders.
Receiving the items, Governor Umo Eno, who was represented by the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Emem Ibanga, expressed gratitude to the church, describing the gesture as a profound act of compassion and humanity.
He noted that beyond mobility support, the aids symbolise restored dignity, renewed hope, and reaffirmed humanity, recalling the church’s past interventions, including medical supply donations during COVID-19, remodeling of health centers in Abak and Uyo, renovation of schools, and support for child nutrition and immunization.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to social inclusion, Governor Eno sought deeper collaboration with the church in establishing a socially inclusive ICT hub for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), provision of additional relief materials, and expanded child nutrition support. Citing Matthew 9:37, he called on other organizations to emulate the church by investing in humanitarian causes that uplift society.
Commissioner Ibanga also highlighted recent strides for PWDs in the state, including their incorporation into the State Social Register, the historic appointment of a PWD as Permanent Secretary, and the ₦100 million educational grant for students with disabilities. She emphasised that under Pastor Eno, ideals of compassion and inclusion have been translated into practical realities for vulnerable groups.
Elder Alfred Kyungu, President of the Africa West Area of the church, explained that the project was executed in partnership with the state, with ministry staff trained on assessment, fitting, and maintenance of the devices. He stressed that all interventions are funded by voluntary donations of church members worldwide, motivated purely by the desire to bless lives. Goodwill messages from senior government officials, professional bodies, and church leaders accompanied the symbolic handover, with beneficiaries expressing heartfelt gratitude for the life-transforming intervention.
It’s encouraging to see initiatives like this that go beyond temporary relief and provide real tools for independence. Mobility aids can significantly improve quality of life, especially for families who may not otherwise afford them. I hope the state can also invest in follow-up support, like training or maintenance, to ensure these aids are used to their fullest potential.