Abuja, Nigeria – Key stakeholders, led by the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), have renewed calls for the integration of disability-inclusive strategies into Nigeria’s climate change and health policies, with a special focus on the needs of persons with albinism (PWAs).
The call was made during a one-day strategic stakeholders’ meeting held at Casa De Lucy Hotel, in the Gudu District of Apo, Abuja, which brought together representatives from the Ministries of Health, Environment, and Education, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and various Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs).
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, participants highlighted the heightened vulnerability of persons with disabilities, especially persons with albinism, to the impacts of climate change — such as prolonged exposure to extreme heat, limited environmental access, and exacerbated health risks. These challenges, they noted, intensify existing inequalities.
The stakeholders urged federal and state governments to mainstream disability-focused frameworks into climate adaptation plans. They specifically tasked the Federal Ministry of Environment with ensuring accessible early warning systems and providing sun-protective interventions for rural and underserved PWAs.
The Ministry of Health was urged to fully implement the National Policy on Albinism, particularly provisions related to subsidized dermatological and ophthalmological care. In addition, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) was called upon to broaden coverage for specialized health services for persons with albinism.
In the education sector, participants recommended reforms to promote albinism awareness, urging the Federal Ministry of Education to revise the national curriculum, introduce assistive learning devices, and improve inclusive infrastructure in public schools.
The group emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral and collaborative approach, calling on Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to coordinate their efforts for more effective programme delivery. The National Orientation Agency (NOA) was also tasked with amplifying public awareness campaigns on climate and health issues affecting persons with albinism.
Another key demand was the institutional inclusion of organisations like JONAPWD and AAN in policy discussions and decision-making processes, particularly ensuring that women and girls with albinism are adequately represented.
The communiqué also stressed the importance of disability-disaggregated data collection, as well as the need for systematic monitoring and evaluation of all climate and health-related interventions.
“This communiqué reflects our collective resolve to ensure that no one — especially persons with albinism — is left behind in the face of climate and health challenges,” said Mr. Joseph Akuse, Program Manager of AAN, who signed the communiqué on behalf of participating stakeholders.
The meeting marks a critical step toward embedding disability inclusion in national policies, especially at a time when climate-related risks and health disparities are deepening for vulnerable communities.
Join Inclusive News Network WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You. Click Here