The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, has restated government’s support for the visually impaired persons in the country.
The Minister reaffirmed this at the commemoration of the 2022 White Cane Safety Day.
“I wish all Nigerians, persons with disabilities and especially our visually impaired brothers and sisters happy celebration as we mark this year’s White Cane Safety Day –Saturday 15th October, 2022”.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, the Minister said the day was meant to raise awareness on the importance of White Cane and its role in the lives of the blind and the visually impaired persons, as well as celebration of their achievements.
“White Cane Day was started in the United States of America, when the then US President Lyndon B. Johnson and the US Congress signed a joint resolution on 6th October, 1964, proclaiming 15th October of every year as White Cane Safety Day.
“A White Cane is an important mobility tool for the blind or visually impaired persons, as well as the symbol of their
independence”.
According to her, the history of White Cane dates back to the early 20th century and is painted white to be more easily visible.
“White Cane Safety Day celebration has been adopted by many other countries after the United States and features lots of activities ranging from road walks, film shows, press conferences and other social events to show-case the White Cane”.
The Minister therefore called on all stakeholders to ensure an inclusive society, for the visually impaired community.
Emmanuel Ukoh
