AAN Seeks Nigeria’s National Albinism Policy Implementation After Five Years

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has sought the partnership of the Nigerian media to amplify the provisions of the National Albinism Policy, which has not been implemented by the federal government.

This was the major crux of a one-day interactive meeting with the media aimed at promoting awareness, addressing misconceptions, and fostering advocacy for the rights and welfare of persons with albinism in Nigeria and amplifying the provisions of the National Albinism Policy.

The meeting brought together media professionals, civil society groups, health practitioners, and stakeholders committed to supporting the albinism community.

Speaking at the event, the President of the association, who doubles as its Executive Director, Mrs Bisi Bamishe, acknowledged the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and dispelling myths about albinism.

She emphasized the need for accurate reporting and sustained advocacy to improve the quality of life for persons with albinism and that the National Albinism Policy represents a milestone in the organisation’s efforts to ensure that persons with albinism in Nigeria are recognised, respected, and supported by the society and the three tiers of government.

“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. Hence, the need to ensure review and implementation is necessary because of the prevailing negative circumstances faced by persons with albinism (PWAs),” she added.

She noted that there was a need for respectful reporting on issues affecting the albinism community, one of which is towards raising awareness about the National Albinism Policy.

She added that other areas include combating myths and stigma and promoting positive representation.

Backing her point, the AAN Lagos State Chairman, Mr Omotolani Ojuri appreciated the support of Disability Rights Funds (DRF) for their unwavering commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities, including those with albinism.

He said AAN was working towards promoting the rights, welfare, and empowerment of individuals with albinism in Nigeria, through which he hopes that the National Albinism Policy will be enforced.

“We believe that by working together with the media, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society for all individuals with albinism; and may I at this point express our deepest gratitude for your interest in our organisation and the importance of the work you do.

“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.”

During an interactive session at the event, stakeholders exchange ideas, share experiences, and propose actionable solutions not limited to strengthening media campaigns to educate the public about albinism, partnering with media houses to run awareness programmes and increasing engagements with policymakers.