The Abia State Disability Commission has announced plans to distribute free sunscreen lotions to persons with albinism across the state as part of efforts to safeguard their health, promote inclusion, and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Chairman of the Commission, Mr. David Anyaele, made this known during a one-day Albinism Medical Sensitisation Programme held at the School for the Blind, Afara, Umuahia. The event, themed “Meeting the Needs of Persons with Albinism through the Medical Model,” was organised by the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), Abia State Chapter.
Anyaele explained that the initiative aligns with Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to improving the welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), particularly Persons with Albinism (PWAs).
“The Commission will provide four packs of sunscreen lotion to each participant to help protect their skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays and reduce the risk of skin cancer,” he said. “The AAN Chairman will suggest a date for the distribution, and the Commission will also provide transport support for members coming to collect the lotions.”
He, however, urged members of the Albinism Association not to rely solely on government assistance but to take proactive steps in creating awareness about albinism and promoting inclusion.
According to Anyaele, excessive exposure to sunlight often results in skin damage, loss of sight, and learning difficulties, all of which affect the quality of life of persons with albinism. He noted that the state government understands these challenges and is addressing them through inclusive policies and capacity-building programs.
He disclosed that the Commission has trained Local Government Chairmen, Permanent Secretaries, and officials from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) on the Abia State Disability Law, disability budgeting, and inclusive governance.
Anyaele also mentioned that the Commission is currently sensitising health and education officers across the 17 LGAs, with active participation from Ms. Ijeoma Okoronkwo, a board member representing the albinism cluster.
He added that financial support has been extended to all disability clusters, including AAN, to enable them commemorate their international awareness days.
Commending the AAN leadership for organising the sensitisation programme, Anyaele called for continuous awareness campaigns to dispel myths and misconceptions about persons with albinism.
He noted that while in some African countries, such as Tanzania, persons with albinism are endangered due to ritual killings, in Nigeria they still face discrimination, bullying, exclusion, and stigma.
“We must change the narrative,” he said. “Persons with Albinism deserve dignity, protection, and equal opportunities like everyone else.”
