The Kwara State Commissioner for Social Development, Mariam Nnafatima Imam, has called on residents to use this year’s World Albinism Awareness Day as a reminder to champion the rights, inclusion, and protection of persons with albinism across the state.
Speaking during the state’s commemoration of the global event themed “10 Years of Awareness: A Decade of Collective Progress,” the Commissioner urged citizens to embrace greater empathy and take deliberate actions that promote equality and social justice for individuals living with albinism and other physical disabilities.
“As the world marks a decade of official global awareness, we urge all Kwarans to reflect on their roles in advancing dignity, protection, and empowerment for all. We must continue to educate our communities, celebrate diversity and protect the rights of those often left behind. Together, we can make Kwara a safer, kinder, and more inclusive place for persons with albinism,” Imam said.
The Commissioner condemned discrimination in any form, against people with albinism, describing it as harmful myths that continue to endanger persons with albinism, especially children and women.
“Albinism is not a curse and it is not a limitation. It is a genetic condition that deserves understanding, dignity, and equal opportunity. In Kwara, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, we are building a society where every individual, regardless of condition or difference, has a seat at the table and access to their rights.
“Kwara State has consistently championed inclusion and welfare for all vulnerable groups through the Ministry of Social Development – ongoing efforts include advocacy camCampCampaigns in schools and communities to dispel harmful beliefs about albinism; social welfare programmes supporting persons living with disabilities, including those with albinism, and promotion of inclusive education and access to healthcare tailored to the needs of persons with albinism,” Imam stated.