BENIN CITY, EDO STATE — June 14, 2026
A prominent advocate for social inclusion and community development, Hon. Dr. Ernest Iyere Ahamioje, has intensified calls for greater support and empowerment of persons living with visual impairment, urging government institutions, private organizations, and well-meaning Nigerians to rally behind the Edo State Chapter of the National Association of the Blind as it prepares for its National Convention scheduled for August 2026.
Speaking during an interactive session with members of the association in Benin City, Dr. Ahamioje delivered an inspiring address themed “The Blind and the Sixth Sense,” challenging societal perceptions about blindness and emphasizing the remarkable abilities, resilience, and achievements of visually impaired individuals.
According to him, disability should never be viewed as a limitation to human potential, noting that countless blind persons across the world have distinguished themselves in academics, business, public service, music, technology, and leadership despite the challenges associated with visual impairment.
Dr. Ahamioje described the “sixth sense” as the extraordinary capacity of the human mind to adapt, innovate, and overcome obstacles, stressing that many blind individuals possess heightened awareness and intuition that enable them to navigate life with confidence and determination.
He called for a deliberate shift from token sympathy to meaningful inclusion, advocating expanded access to quality education, employment opportunities, assistive technologies, healthcare services, and accessible public infrastructure for persons living with disabilities.
“Society must move beyond seeing disability as a weakness and begin to recognize the immense strengths, talents, and contributions of people living with visual impairment,” he said. “True vision is not merely the ability to see with the eyes; it is the ability to dream, create, inspire, and impact lives.”
The philanthropist and community leader further reaffirmed his commitment to advancing disability rights through the Dr. Ernest Iyere Ahamioje Project Initiatives, pledging continued advocacy and support aimed at creating a more inclusive society where accessibility and equal opportunity are guaranteed for all.
He encouraged members of the association to remain steadfast in pursuing their aspirations, reminding them that courage, determination, and self-belief remain powerful tools for overcoming barriers.
In his response, the Secretary-General of the Edo State Chapter of the National Association of the Blind, Comrade Mathew Akhabue, popularly known as Matete, expressed profound appreciation to Dr. Ahamioje for his unwavering support, advocacy, and commitment to the welfare of visually impaired persons.
Akhabue noted that the association remains focused on a successful outing at the forthcoming national convention and commended Dr. Ahamioje for consistently using his platform to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities and promote a more inclusive society.
The event reinforced growing calls for stronger collaboration among government agencies, development partners, and civil society organizations in ensuring that persons living with disabilities are fully integrated into national development efforts and afforded the opportunities necessary to thrive.
With Kingsley Ohens Reporting
Discover more from Urbanscoopnews
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
