The Abia State Commission for the Welfare of Disabled Persons has pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at protecting persons with albinism from health risks and discrimination, as members of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Abia State Chapter, embarked on an awareness walk to the Government House, Umuahia.
Receiving the group on behalf of the State government, the Chairman of the Commission, Dr. David Anyaele, reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Alex Otti to the welfare and dignity of persons with disabilities.
Dr Anyaele said the government’s approach to disability inclusion was anchored on respect for humanity and the need to ensure that persons with disabilities were not excluded from government programmes and opportunities.
He noted that the Commission had continued to take awareness and advocacy beyond its office by engaging communities and stakeholders on the rights and needs of persons with disabilities.
“The Commission is making sure that we go around to create awareness,” Anyaele said.
The Disability Commission Chairman also recalled the supports extended to persons with albinism, particularly the provision of sunscreen, noting that such interventions were important in protecting people with albinism from health challenges associated with prolonged exposure to sunlight. Assuring the association of the Commission’s continued support for initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing and protection of persons with albinism in Abia.
Dr. Anyaele expressed his excitement over the support being given to the Albinism Community by the wife of the Governor and First Lady of Abia State, Lady Priscilla C Otti.
“Just last week, the First Lady of Abia State Lady Priscilla C Otti hosted the Persons with Albinism in the State for the second time this year. Participants were enlightened on prevention and management of albinism. All the participants also went home with food items, medical items, and financial support” Abia State Disability Commission said.
Earlier, in his address, the Chairman of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Abia State Chapter, Hon. Enyinnaya Nwosu, said the group came as a family to invite the Commission and other stakeholders to the launch of the Cancer Trust Fund.
Hon. Nwosu explained that the initiative was designed to support awareness and sensitisation programmes, particularly at the community level, while drawing attention to the need for greater protection of persons with albinism against skin cancer.
He noted that the association intend to take its sensitisation campaign to schools and communities to educate parents and the public on albinism, health protection and ways of preventing complications associated with the condition.
The association chairman expressed appreciation to the Commission for its support and attention to the concerns of persons with albinism in the state.
The visit formed part of activities marking the 2026 International Albinism Awareness Day