Albinism Association of Nigeria advocates timely implementation of GDS-2025 commitments

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), on Wednesday, advocated for the prompt implementation of commitments. These commitments were made by Nigeria at the recently concluded Global Disability Summit (GDS-2025) in Germany.

Nigeria pledged to improve on the benchmarks in the Disability Act within the set timelines at the summit.

The Albinism group decried the frequent discrimination they faced in society. They also struggled in securing employment due to the nature God created them with.

They urged the Nigerian government to guarantee the implementation of the Disability Act to protect them.

Dr Bisi Bamishe is the Executive Director of the Albinism Association of Nigeria. He urged the authorities to end discrimination against people with albinism. He also called on society to stop discrimination against individuals with other disabilities. He said this during a media round-table in Yenagoa on Wednesday. Bamishe sought to promote conversation around government for post-GDS-2025.

She urged the Nigerian government to adhere to the commitments made at the GDS-2025. She did this by highlighting what people with albinism go through. She emphasised why they matter and how they can improve their lives.

“Through strategic community outreach, policy advocacy, and public education, people with albinism have made significant strides. These efforts have improved access to healthcare. They have also enhanced education and employment opportunities.

“We are committed to the implementation of the National Policy on Albinism in Nigeria. This reflects our resolve to drive systematic change. Our goal is to empower people with albinism to thrive in society.

“We have the mission to unite persons with albinism. We aim to protect their rights and interests against discrimination. We also strive to prevent their marginalisation in society. We pursue the vision to achieve a fair, secure, and socially inclusive society. This society will empower members and give unfettered access to opportunities for self-fulfillment and dignity of human life.

“Media should help us strengthen government efforts by showcasing positive actions and encouraging broader implementation of the disability inclusive policies.

“Let’s support efforts to raise awareness about Albinism, promote understanding and combat discrimination. The Nigerian government has made significant strides in addressing albinism. They focus on legal protection, social inclusion, and addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by people with albinism. However, we need media support to amplify our voices.” Bamishe said.

Also speaking, Member representing Yenagoa constituency 1 in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. Ayibanegiyefa Egba, urged the persons with albinism to always prepare themselves for opportunities. They should not allow the colour of their skin to deter them from pursuing their dreams.

She stated that the State House of Assembly is already in the process of domesticating the Federal law on disability.

The legislator noted that there was a dearth of data on people with albinism and disability. This data is essential for legislation. It is also crucial for developing disability-friendly policies.

Chief Nengi James, Patron of the group, urged the group to strengthen ties with the media. He also called on them to build relationships with civil society. This effort aims to tackle the marginalisation of people with albinism. Such marginalisation occurs even within the disability group.

He pledged to sustain ongoing advocacy for inclusion for people with albinism. He applauded Gov Douye Diri for appointing people with disability as aides.

He regretted the exclusion of people with albinism in political appointments and appealed to the governor to handle the exclusion.