The Albinism Association of Nigeria on Wednesday advocated the timely implementation of commitments made by Nigeria recently concluded Global Disability Summit (GDS-2025) in Germany.

Nigeria pledged at the summit to improve on benchmarks in the Disability Act within set timelines.

The Albinism group decried frequent discrimination they faced in the society and even to secure employment due to the nature God created them with.

They urged the Nigerian government to ensure implementation of the Disability Act to protect them.

Speaking during a media roundtable in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital to promote conversation around government for post-GDS-2025, Dr Bisi Bamishe, Executive Director, Albinism Association of Nigeria, urged the authorities and the society to end discrimination against people with albinism and other disabilities.

She urged the Nigerian government to adhere to the commitments made at the GDS-2025, by highlighting what people with albinism go through, why they matter and how they can improve on their lives.

?Through strategic community outreach, policy advocacy, and public education, people with albinism have made significant strides in improving access to healthcare, education and employment opportunities.

?Our ongoing push for the implementation of the National Policy on Albinism in Nigeria reflects our resolve to drive systematic change that empowers people with albinism to thrive in the society.

?We have the mission to unite and protect the rights and interests of persons with albinism against discrimination and marginalization in the society, while pursuing the vision to attain a fair, secure and socially inclusive society that empowers members and provides unfettered access to opportunities for self-fulfilment and dignity of human life.

?Media should help us strengthen government efforts by showcasing positive actions and encouraging broader implementation of the disability inclusive policies.

?Let?s support efforts to raise awareness about Albinism, promote understanding and combat discrimination. Nigerian government has made significant strides in addressing albinism with a focus on legal protection, social inclusion and addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by people with albinism, but we need media support to amplify our voices,? Bamishe said.

Also speaking, Member representing Yenagoa constituency 1 in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. Ayibanegiyefa Egba, urged the persons with albinism to always prepare themselves for opportunities, but should not allow the colour of their skins to deter them from pursuing their dreams.

She stated that the State House of Assembly is already in the process of domesticating the Federal law on disability.

The legislator noted that there was dearth of data on people with albinism and disability which is essential for legislation and developing disability friendly policies.

Chief Nengi James, Patron of the group, called on the group to strengthen ties with the media and civil society to tackle the marginalisation of people with albinism even within the disability group.

He pledged to sustain ongoing advocacy for inclusion for people with albinism and applauded Gov Douye Diri for appointment of people with disability as sides.

He r?grett?d the exclusion of people with albinism in political appointments and appealed to the governor to address the exclusion.

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