The South-South Zone of the Nigeria Association of the Blind has continued to strengthen organizational unity, democratic governance, and advocacy for blind and visually impaired persons under the leadership of Nkemakonam Ofili.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since assuming office as South-South Zonal Coordinator in June 2023, Nkemakonam Ofili has led several initiatives aimed at improving communication among state chapters, resolving leadership disputes, promoting constitutional compliance, and advancing inclusion across the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the first major steps taken after the inauguration of the zonal leadership was the establishment of a dedicated WhatsApp platform for members and leaders across the South-South zone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The platform created an avenue for regular communication, collaboration, and virtual engagements among state chapter representatives and zonal leaders. Through consistent discussions and consultations, the zone was able to address emerging challenges, strengthen leadership coordination, and encourage collective participation in decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This initiative significantly improved information sharing and enhanced rapid response to issues affecting members and chapters across the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In response to constitutional concerns surrounding the leadership of the Akwa Ibom State Chapter, the National Board of the Nigeria Association of the Blind mandated the South-South Zonal Coordinator to intervene after the chapter\u2019s executive committee overstayed its tenure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In April 2024, Nkemakonam Ofili successfully carried out the dissolution of the expired executive committee and facilitated the establishment of a caretaker committee to oversee the affairs of the chapter pending elections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although the caretaker process experienced disagreements among stakeholders, the intervention of the National President alongside the zonal coordinator helped restore peace and stability within the chapter. This eventually paved the way for successful elections conducted in May 2025, leading to the emergence of a new executive committee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In October 2025, the Akwa Ibom State Chapter hosted the International White Cane Day celebration, inviting both the National President and the South-South Zonal Coordinator to participate in the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The event focused on promoting awareness, mobility rights, inclusion, and advocacy for blind and visually impaired persons. Sponsored by First Bank of Nigeria in collaboration with Total Inclusion Limited, the celebration provided a valuable platform for stakeholder engagement and public sensitization on the rights and capabilities of blind persons in society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In April 2024, the South-South Zonal Coordinator supervised the election process of the Edo State Chapter of the association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although operational challenges initially delayed the conclusion of the electoral process, further coordination and stakeholder engagements ensured the successful completion of the election in May 2024. The process ultimately produced a new set of executive officers to lead the chapter and reinforced constitutional governance within the association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Cross River State Chapter election was successfully conducted under the supervision of the South-South Zonal Coordinator in November 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The electoral process was peaceful, transparent, and credible, leading to the emergence and swearing-in of newly elected executives. The successful exercise further strengthened organizational continuity and democratic leadership within the zone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unable to organize a physical zonal gathering due to financial constraints and limited sponsorship, the zonal leadership adopted a virtual engagement strategy by hosting an online webinar in March 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The webinar, themed \u201cBeyond Limitation: Unlocking Opportunities for Blind Persons in Nigeria Today,\u201d<\/em> brought together members, advocates, professionals, and stakeholders from across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The guest speaker, Kenneth Echiche, delivered insightful presentations on empowerment, leadership, employment opportunities, and self-development for blind persons in Nigeria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Participants described the webinar as inspiring and impactful, as it provided practical guidance on overcoming societal barriers and navigating opportunities despite prevailing challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite the achievements recorded, the South-South zone continues to face several operational challenges, including inadequate funding for zonal activities, difficulties in organizing physical gatherings, leadership disputes in some chapters, and limited resources for advocacy and capacity-building programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, through collaboration, dialogue, and the dedication of members and leaders, the zone has continued to make meaningful progress in strengthening the association and advancing the welfare of blind and visually impaired persons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Under the leadership of Nkemakonam Ofili, the South-South Zone has remained committed to promoting constitutional governance, organizational stability, advocacy, and inclusion within the Nigeria Association of the Blind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The successes recorded during the period under review reflect the collective commitment of the National Leadership, state chapter executives, members, and partner organizations working together to build a stronger, more united, and inclusive future for blind and visually impaired Nigerians.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The South-South Zone of the Nigeria Association of the Blind has continued to strengthen organizational unity, democratic governance, and advocacy for blind and visually impaired persons under the leadership of Nkemakonam Ofili. Since assuming office as South-South Zonal Coordinator in June 2023, Nkemakonam Ofili has led several initiatives aimed at improving communication among state chapters, … <\/p>\nChallenges Facing the Zone<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Commitment to a Stronger and Inclusive NAB<\/h3>\n\n\n\n