Media professionals have been charged with responsive, respective and inclusive reportage of persons with albinism to promote the rights and overall well being of persons with albinism in Nigeria. The charge was made by Mrs Bisi Bamishe, the President and Executive Director of the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) during a one-day interactive session with media professionals to amplify the provisions of the National Albinism Policy which was supported by Disability Rights Fund (DRF).
Mrs Bamishe explained that the media has a critical role to play in sensitizing the public about albinism and debunking the myths and misconceptions that reinforce stereotypes against persons with albinism. She emphasized the need for accurate reporting and sustained advocacy to improve the quality of life for persons with albinism and called for the implementation of the National Albinism Policy, which according to her, “represents a milestone in the organisation efforts to ensure that persons with albinism in Nigeria are recognised, respected, and supported by the society and the three tiers of government.”
She said “The National Policy on Albinism is a comprehensive framework designed to address the unique challenges faced by persons with albinism in Nigeria. The policy aims to promote social inclusion, economic empowerment, and access to education and healthcare for individuals with albinism. It was drafted in 2019 with plans to be implemented within five years.
“So, it was expected that its implementation would be completed by December 2024 Unfortunately, it has not seen the light of the day. Since it has not been implemented as intended up till now, persons with albinism are suffering and it seems there is no hope even though a national policy supporting our course of living was initiated.
The AAN President stressed that there is a need to ensure review and implementation of the policy to address all the challenges being experienced by persons with albinism.
Earlier, Mr Tolani Ojuri, the AAN Lagos State Chairman, commended the support of Disability Rights Funds (DRF) for supporting AAN in its efforts to promote the rights, welfare, and empowerment of individuals with albinism in Nigeria.
Ojuri noted that the interactive session with media professionals will help to create a more inclusive and supportive society for all individuals with albinism in Nigeria.
He added that “this is an opportunity to build a united front to tackle misinformation, discrimination, and stigmatisation faced by persons with albinism in Nigeria. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the provisions of the National Albinism Policy and its significance for the protection and inclusion of persons with albinism. We strongly believe that the media will help to play a crucial role in raising awareness about albinism and promoting a more inclusive society.”
Participants at the session expressed commitment to educate the public about albinism.