In recent times, the Executive Governor’s Roundtable Summit in Abuja, steered by His Excellency Prince Bassey Otu’s administration under the theme ‘Building Cooperation for a Better Today and Resilient Future,’ stands as a beacon of hope for Cross River State.
It underscores the state’s commitment to partnership forging and reform implementation for a brighter economic outlook. It reiterates the sincerity of the People’s First Agenda in CRS’s economic revival.
However, amidst the array of initiatives unveiled, the voices of marginalized communities (Disability and Women Inclusive) remain subdued, their needs often overshadowed by broader economic discourse. This prompts a vital shift in focus towards empowering overlooked communities in CRS. By leveraging the resources and expertise of the proposed CRS Disabilities Rights Commission, harnessing the invaluable contributions of CRS-Diasporans, and reinforcing community resilience strategies, the full potential of the state’s diverse populace can be unlocked, thereby fostering Disability and women-inclusive economic growth.
Among these marginalized groups are CRS persons with disabilities, at-risk children, individuals grappling with Historical Traumas, and Internally Displaced Persons who were among the Christians’ first victims of Northern Nigeria’s Terrorism attacks and are suffering from the late effects of trauma, called, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Despite constituting a significant portion of the CRS population, their needs often go unrecognized. However, with proper conceptualization and prioritization, these needs can serve as a basis for negotiations with international donor agencies, tapping into federal government programs, and spurring Disability and women-inclusive economic revitalization in CRS.
The establishment of a Disability Rights Commission in CRS, enabled by law, presents a pivotal opportunity to address the needs of CRS Persons with Disabilities and catalyze Disability and women-inclusive economic development.
Through Disability and Women-inclusive employment practices, entrepreneurship support, accessible infrastructure, and advocacy for disability rights, the commission can pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous society.
Additionally, the rich resource pool of Cross River State diasporans can further propel multiple sustainable Disability and Women Inclusive economic growths and developments. With access to capital, investment networks, and expertise acquired abroad, CRS-Diasporans can drive innovation, job creation, and tourism promotion in CRS, thereby bolstering its Disability and Women Inclusive economic landscape.
Furthermore, adopting Disability and Women Inclusive Community Resilience Strategies (CRS) offers a holistic approach to development, prioritizing inclusivity, accessibility, and collaboration.
By addressing the specific needs of marginalized populations and fostering social cohesion and resilience, CRS can build a more Disability and Women Inclusive sustainable, and prosperous future for all, under the mandates set by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 2030 Agenda.
In essence, empowering overlooked communities is not just a moral obligation but a strategic investment in CRS’s Disability and Women Inclusive future. By embracing diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration, CRS can unlock the full potential of every individual, ensuring shared prosperity for generations to come.
Job Napoleon is the convener, Pioneers of Nigeria’s National & International Civil Rights Movement and Policy Changers.
Phone: +234 (705) 844-7521
Email:jobnsoragbor53@gmail.com
