“Let us commit in action to building communities where accessibility is norm, not privilege” – Lauretta Onochie
I want to thank all my past students and co-lecturers in the United Kingdom, through whose association, I learned the virtues that have guided me as I weather through the murky Nigerian political terrain. I will also, appreciate Boris Johnson who supported me to overcome my speech defects. Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities to everyone.
Madam Due Process, as she was fondly called during her years in President Muhammadu Buhari’s Presidency, Madam Lauretta Onochie, former Chairman Board of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has joined millions of people globally celebrating people with disabilities as the world marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
In a statement titled, “ON THIS DAY:”, she said, “Today, our hearts turn to millions of people across the globe whose courage lights up this nation—the men, women, and children living with disabilities. On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we pause, we reflect, and we open our arms wider in solidarity, respect, and love.”
According to the statement posted on her verified Facebook social media timeline, the former Special Assistant to the President on Digital and Social Media during the Buhari’s Administration
“Every day, persons with disabilities rise above barriers many of us will never see. They push through systems that are often unkind, environments that are not built for them, and attitudes that still need to change. Yet, despite these challenges, they continue to teach us the true meaning of strength, patience, and humanity.
“This is one of the main reasons I opted for ADC, a party with a structure that is all inclusive with Dr. @chikeiq, a brilliant Nigerian living with a disability, as the National Leader.
“This day is not just a date on the calendar.
It is a reminder that every life is precious, every voice matters, and every citizen deserves to stand tall with dignity and opportunity.
“Let us commit—not in words alone, but in action:
“To build communities where accessibility is the norm, not a privilege
“To create opportunities that honour talent, not disability
“To promote kindness, understanding, and empathy in our daily interactions
“To ensure that no Nigerian feels invisible, overlooked, or forgotten
“To all persons with disabilities in our world:
You are loved. You are valued. You are part of the heartbeat of our nation.
Your dreams matter, your struggles matter, and your victories inspire us all.
“May this day rekindle our collective resolve to create a world where inclusion is real, where compassion guides our choices, and where every citizen, without exception, can rise, thrive, and shine.
“I want to thank all my past students and co-lecturers in the United Kingdom, through whose association, I learned the virtues that have guided me as I weather through the murky Nigerian political terrain. I will also, appreciate Boris Johnson who supported me to overcome my speech defects.
“Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities to everyone,” she wrote.
