The Lion Heart Ability Foundation (LALIF) is set to launch Nigeria’s first national association for persons with Deaf-blindness.
The launch will commence with a maiden national conference from October 9 to 11, 2024 under the theme “Out Of The Darkness Of Marginalization: Nothing About Disabilities Or Special Education Any Longer Without Deaf-blindness.”
In a press release, issued by Mr Solomon Okelola, the Executive Director of LALIF, to announce the launch, the conference aims to spotlight the unique needs and rights of those living with dual sensory impairments; both vision and hearing loss.
While highlighting the gap in the recognition of persons with deaf-blindness in Nigeria, Mr Okelola explained that “for decades, the issues surrounding deaf-blindness in Nigeria were shrouded in mystery, with little or no visibility of these individuals in disability circles, schools, or social spaces. Prior to 2019, professionals in Special Education knew of the existence of deaf-blind individuals, but they were largely inaccessible and misunderstood. Special schools for the Deaf and the Blind struggled to teach or communicate with learners experiencing both vision and hearing impairments.
“This began to change in September 2019 when Lionheart Ability Leaders International Foundation, led by Mr. Solomon “Lionheart” Okelola and Mr. Oluseyi “Wonder” Eniyansoro, both Deaf-blind individuals, staged the first public awareness rally in Lagos.
“The rally, which focused on Usher Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes both vision and hearing loss, marked the beginning of sustained advocacy for the recognition of Deaf-blind individuals in Nigeria. A follow-up rally in Abuja later that year reinforced the urgent need for awareness and inclusion.”
In its work to promote the rights of people with deaf-blindness in Nigeria, LALIF, through the support of the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), has continued to engage government officials, policymakers, civil society organizations, and the media in meaningful conversations about the needs and challenges of individuals living with Deaf-blindness.
Mr Okelola said “with the upcoming national conference, the association seeks to move this struggle forward. The event will bring together prominent figures from the disability community, special education professionals, and advocates who have long supported the cause. Attendance is by invitation or registration.”
He explained that “as we commence the next stage of the journey for inclusion, we look forward to partnerships with donors, the government, and other organizations as we continue the difficult task of ensuring academic, health, and social inclusion for these unique individuals.”
The launch of this association signals the beginning of a more inclusive era for Deaf-blind citizens in Nigeria, breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for visibility, education, and participation in all spheres of life.
He also appealed for support for the organizations and donations can be made to Lionheart Ability Leaders International Foundation, United Bank for Africa, Account Number: 1023022127. The organization can also be contacted via socialchangeafrica@gmail.com or deafblindintegratorafrica@gmail.com.