The Albinism Association of Nigeria, AAN, National President, Bisi Bamishe has disclosed that the association loses at least two people every month to skin cancer.
Association commemorates day till month end
She disclosed this just as the Association is preparing for events to commemorate this year’s, International Albinism Awareness Day, IAAD, themed: 10 years of IAAD: A decade of collective progress.”
According to her, “Albinism is a rare, non contagious genetically inherited difference present at birth. Albinism results in lack of pigmentation of melanin in the hair, eyes and colour, causing vulnerability to the sun and bright light. In all types of albinism, both parents must carry the gene for it to be passed on, even if they don’t have albinism themselves. Almost all persons with albinism are visually impaired and are prone to developing skin cancer. Unfortunately there is no cure for absence of melanin.”
Hence, the group is calling on the government to address challenges faced by persons with albinism in the country.
AAN wants more from government, development partners
AAN is worried and wants the Nigerian government to come to its aid as every June 13 is used by the cluster to highlight the achievements made so far and the ongoing pursuit of equality, inclusivity, and protection for persons with albinism.
According to Bamishe, “For the past 10 years, we have been celebrating the day in style, bringing awareness to millions of people about albinism.
The group is concerned that persons with albinism are still being discriminated against and stigmatised.
In a statement made available to CASEFILE, they expressed displeasure over social isolation and marginalisation.
The group is also worried about their limited representation and inclusion in the media, education, and employment.
The group decried continued violence, persecution, killings and bodily harm against their persons.
They also claimed they lack access to adequate healthcare, particularly in low-income countries.
To bring some succour to the group, AAN has lined up events and activities till the end of this month to commemorate IAAD 2024 nationwide.
According to the leader of the group, there would be awareness campaigns, educational programs, road walk, advocacy initiatives and policy discussions, media talk among others.
Regarding the IAAD, Bamishe noted “We commemorate a decade since the United Nations declared June 13th as a day to recognise the struggles and triumphs of persons with albinism worldwide.
“In 2014, the United Nations declared June 13 International Albinism Awareness Day. June 13 was selected because it was the date of the first UN resolution on albinism in 2013. That resolution raised the alarm on attacks and discrimination against people with albinism. Since then, June 13 has been celebrated as a platform to not only further raise alarm of those violations but to also raise a platform to celebrate people with albinism worldwide.
According to President of the AAN, “International Albinism Awareness Day aims to promote understanding and acceptance of the diversity of human skin and hair colour. It also stresses the importance of inclusion and belonging, and the need to create a more inclusive and supportive society for persons with albinism.
“Over the years, the day has become an occasion to educate the public on issues of concern about persons with albinism as well as mobilise political will and resources to address their plight.
She added, “This theme invites us to: Celebrate the strides made within albinism community, with renewed commitment for the future; highlight the tireless efforts of global albinism groups, reflect on the continued legal policy and practical changes still required to ensure the full and equal enjoyment of rights by persons with albinism.:”
Plight of persons with albinism
She further explained, “It is sad that albinism remains widely misunderstood, leading to discrimination, stigma, and social exclusion. However, the past decade has seen significant strides in the albinism movement, with increased awareness, advocacy, and policy changes.
“In Nigeria for example, we lose at least, two people every month to skin cancer. Skin cancer is highly preventable when persons with albinism enjoy their rights to health. This includes access to regular skin checks, sunscreen, UV umbrella, sun protective clothing and sunglasses.
“As we mark this milestone, we acknowledge the progress made and renew our commitment to creating a society that values diversity and promotes inclusivity.
AAN wants more from government, development partners
‘We urge governments, international organisations, and civil society to join us in addressing the remaining gaps and ensuring the full enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism.
“They want all stakeholders to join in recognising the strength and resilience of persons with albinism and in working together towards a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
“We want to express our appreciation to Federal and state government as well as development partners, most especially Disability Rights Fund and Sightsavers, for their tremendous support to albinism community in Nigeria.
“There is more work to be done. By spreading awareness about albinism, we can help to make the world a better place for those affected by this condition. We can help them to feel more supported and accepted, and we can help to raise awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusion,” the group concludes.
