Abuja: The President of Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), Dr. Bisi Bamishe, has urged the government and stakeholders to expedite efforts to include skin screening and treatment into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). Bamishe made the call during her welcome address at the event celebrating International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the theme of the celebration, ‘IAAD 2025: Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives,’ organized by AAN, serves as a call for urgent action. Bamishe emphasized that including skin screening and treatment in NHIS is crucial to addressing challenges faced by persons with albinism. She highlighted the severe health challenges, particularly skin cancer, affecting the community and urged governments, civil society, and the public to ensure healthcare, protection, empowerment, and inclusion for people with albinism.
Bamishe pointed out the harsh environmental conditions leading to increased skin cancer cases among members of the albinism community, many of whom cannot afford treatment. She appealed to the government and stakeholders to support integrating skin screening and treatment into NHIS, stressing that such intervention would save lives and provide hope.
Bamishe also addressed the educational disadvantages faced by students with albinism due to visual impairment and called for the full implementation of the National Albinism Policy on Education. She urged relevant authorities to provide necessary learning aids to facilitate inclusive and quality education. She expressed hope that the celebration would renew commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of persons with albinism in Nigeria, inspiring advocacy, inclusive policies, and investments in their health, education, and well-being.
Bamishe recounted the association’s achievements over the past two years, including expanding AAN’s state chapters to 26, with plans to establish chapters in remaining states. The association has registered with JONAPWD, OPDs, NCPWD, and other MDAs, gaining national recognition, influence, and acquiring a project office. The association has also strengthened relationships with critical stakeholders for social integration.
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of AAN, Prof. Sam Amadi, noted that the association had a good structure, gaining more recognition and achieving more. He emphasized the importance of unity in articulating their needs and highlighted ongoing reforms, urging more advocacy efforts.
Mr. Kaura Wakili, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), FCT Chapter, acknowledged the unique challenges faced by persons with albinism. He commended their strength and resilience and assured them of sustained solidarity, advocating for better healthcare, equal opportunities in education and employment, and protection from discrimination.
A stakeholder, Mr. Afam Kasim, advised persons with albinism to protect themselves from sun rays to prevent skin cancer. He recommended using sunscreen and emphasized the importance of self-protection alongside government support.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event attracted stakeholders from the public and private sectors and executives of AAN from different states.
