The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has made a passionate appeal for greater health and educational support for persons with albinism, urging policymakers to implement urgent reforms to address the unique challenges faced by PWAs to improve their quality of life and ensure their fundamental rights are upheld.
The group made the appeal during its commemoration of the 2025 International Albinism Awareness Day themed “Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives.”
In her address, Dr. Mrs. Bisi Bamishe, National President of AAN, expressed deep gratitude to supporters and emphasized the critical purpose of the gathering. “Today is not just a calendar event,” she said, “it is a global affirmation of the dignity, worth, and rights of persons with albinism.” She highlighted the significance of the day in calling for urgent measures to combat life-threatening challenges like skin cancer.
Among the key supporters acknowledged was the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), whose contributions have enabled the implementation of projects in inclusive education, healthcare, climate resilience, and policy advocacy.
Addressing one of the most pressing challenges, Dr. Bamishe raised alarm over the high incidence of skin cancer among PWAs, attributing the surge to Nigeria’s harsh climate and inadequate access to treatment. “Many cannot afford treatment, and as a result, we are losing lives daily,” she lamented. She called on the government and stakeholders to integrate skin screening and treatment into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
The AAN president also urged the inclusion of sunscreen in Nigeria’s essential drug list and echoed global advocacy for the World Health Organization (WHO) to add it to the Essential Medicines List. These measures, she argued, are vital in upholding the right to health and the right to life for persons with albinism.
Beyond health, the association spotlighted educational barriers facing students with albinism, particularly due to visual impairments. Dr. Bamishe urged authorities to fully implement the National Albinism Policy on Education and provide necessary learning aids.
“Inclusive and quality education is not a privilege. It is a right,” she declared.
Dr. Bamishe outlined AAN’s structural reforms and recent achievements under her leadership, including the expansion of state chapters to 26, formal registration with key disability and government agencies, and the establishment of a functional project office. “We have made notable progress, but the journey is far from over,” she noted.
She also introduced the association’s Board of Trustees, led by Prof. Sam Amadi, as well as the National Executive Council and Technical Team. These bodies, she emphasized, forms backbone of AAN’s advocacy and project delivery nationwide.
The event brought together a diverse audience including representatives of government ministries, the judiciary, civil society, disability organizations, and the media. Dr. Bamishe commended their presence as a sign of solidarity. “Your presence here signifies a commitment to inclusive development,” she said
Closing her address, Dr. Bamishe urged sustained advocacy and collaboration.
“Let this year’s celebration inspire bolder policies, deeper investments, and renewed commitment to the rights and dignity of persons with albinism,” she said. “Above all, let it remind us and the world that we are worthy, we are strong, and we belong”.