UNICAL VC Advocates for Implementation of Disability Act in Nigeria


The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Banku has called on government at all levels to prioritise people living with disabilities in Nigeria.

Prof Florence Obi, Unical VC
 


Prof. Obi made the call while speaking at the 1st National Colloquium/Conference in Special Needs Education in honour of Prof. Emeka Desmond Ozoji in the University of Calabar.

The Conference which was on Nigerian Special Needs Education in Search of an Identity brought notable participants in the field to discuss the future and prospects of people living with disabilities.

The Vice Chancellor said special needs education is not limited to those in the field and those living with disabilities, stressing that  being a special person, or a disabled person is not far from anyone. 

Obi who recounted the sad ordeal of a literary icon, Prof. Chinua Achebe who later became disabled and died as a disabled person called on public spirited individuals and corporate organizations to support in the implementation of the Disability Act of 1993 in Nigeria where men and women living with disabilities can also fit into the Nigerian society.

Eulogizing the honoree, Prof. Emeka Desmond Osoji, the VC describes him as a distinguished academia, workaholic, a prolific writer and an editor. She also lauded him for his immense contributions to the field of special needs education while acknowledging his excellent mentorship to others including herself. 

In an earlier address, the Colloquium Convener and National Planning Chairman, Prof. Julius Ademokoya commended the VC for hosting them while describing her as a major pride in the profession. 

The conference was attended by notable figures including Prof. Emeka Desmond Ozoji(the Honoree),Vice Chancellor of the Kwara State University, Prof. Shaykh-Luqman Alade Jimoh (who was represented by the Deputy VC Academics, Prof. Olubokola Dada), Dr. Deborah Agu and many others.

©️ Onigah Joseph Egidi


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