CCD pushes for disability-inclusive climate policy in Abia

Umuahia, Abia – The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) has restated its resolve to ensure that Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are fully integrated into climate governance in Abia State, following a high-level advocacy visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philimon Asonye Ogbonna.

The strategic meeting, held recently, at the Ministry of Environment in Umuahia, focused on fast-tracking the finalisation and implementation of Abia State’s draft Disability-Inclusive Climate Change Policy.

Speaking during the courtesy call, the CCD delegation, led by its Executive Director, Mr. David Anyaele, thanked the Commissioner for the warm reception and the Ministry’s openness to collaboration.

The team emphasised that climate change disproportionately affects PWDs and stressed the need for deliberate, actionable measures to guarantee their participation in planning, response, and adaptation programmes.

In his response, Hon. Philimon Asonye Ogbonna commended CCD for its sustained advocacy on climate justice and disability inclusion. He described the organisation as a “consistent and reliable partner” and gave firm assurance that the Ministry is committed to mainstreaming disability perspectives in all climate-related policies and projects.

“The Ministry of Environment under my watch will leave no one behind, especially our brothers and sisters living with disabilities,” the Commissioner stated.

He added, “We are ready to work closely with CCD to ensure the draft policy reflects global best practices and meets the real needs of PWDs in Abia State.”

Key areas highlighted for collaboration include:

– Capacity building for Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on disability-inclusive climate action
Establishment of accessible early-warning systems.

– Inclusive climate adaptation and mitigation projects.

– Dedicated funding lines for disability-focused climate interventions

The meeting ended with both parties agreeing to set up a joint technical working group to expedite the review and adoption of the draft policy before the end of the first quarter of 2026.

CCD has been at the forefront of advocacy for disability-inclusive climate governance across Nigeria, partnering with state governments and development organisations to ensure that the voices and specific vulnerabilities of PWDs are reflected in national and sub-national climate frameworks.