As Nigeria marks National Albinism Day today, the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) is calling for greater awareness, protection, and inclusion of persons with albinism (PWAs), while urging the government to take concrete steps to address the unique health and social challenges they face.
Dr. (Mrs.) Bisi Bamishe, National President of AAN, made the call in a statement issued to commemorate the occasion. She emphasized the theme for this year, “Protect Your Skin, Be Sun Smart”, which highlights the pressing need for preventive care and public education to protect the health and dignity of people with albinism across the country.
Dr. Bamishe noted that persons with albinism, who lack melanin—the pigment that protects the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation—are at high risk of health complications due to sun exposure. These include painful sunburns, premature skin aging, vision problems linked to light sensitivity, and a significantly increased risk of skin cancer, especially in rural areas where access to protective resources is limited.
To mitigate these risks, AAN encourages the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, the wearing of protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves, and limiting outdoor activity during peak sunlight hours. The association also stressed the importance of routine medical checkups to ensure early detection and treatment of any skin changes.
The AAN is urging the Nigerian government at all levels to recognize sunscreen as an essential medicine under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and to provide free or subsidized health services and protective gear to PWAs. The association also called for training of healthcare providers and educators to better understand and cater to the needs of persons with albinism. Furthermore, the group appealed for full enforcement of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act and the launch of public education campaigns, especially in underserved rural communities.
To drive long-term change, the association is advocating for stronger policy implementation and monitoring of disability-inclusive programs. It also emphasized the need for better data collection on persons with albinism, increased collaboration with NGOs and international agencies, and enhanced community-based advocacy through peer support networks.
Dr. Bamishe expressed appreciation to all who have supported the association’s mission since its founding in 2019. She acknowledged members, volunteers, donors, media partners, and stakeholders including state governments, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), and the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) for their continued support.
“Together, let us commit to a Nigeria where persons with albinism are safe, empowered, and included,” she concluded.
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