The Albinism Association of Nigeria, AAN, has called on the Federal Government to integrate skin cancer screening and treatment into the National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS.
The gesture it said is part of efforts to improve healthcare access for persons with albinism.
The appeal was made by Dr Bisi Bamishe, President of AAN, during the International Albinism Awareness DayAAD) celebration held on Friday in Abuja.
The event, themed “IAAD 2025: Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives,” was attended by stakeholders from across the country’s health, education, and disability sectors.
Read also: Excessive Use Of Perfumes Linked To Cancer — Experts Warn
Lagbaja was poisoned by military cabal, didn’t die of cancer – Ex-presidential spokesman
Another Nigerian Actress Dies Of Cancer (Photo)
Dr Bamishe emphasised that the theme of this year’s event reflects the urgent health and social challenges facing persons with albinism, especially the disproportionate rate of skin cancer within the community.
“The theme highlights the critical need to raise awareness about the severe health challenges, especially skin cancer, which disproportionately affects our community,” Bamishe said.
She noted that many members of the association cannot afford the high cost of skin cancer treatment, which has led to the avoidable loss of lives across the country.
“We passionately appeal to the government, stakeholders and every concerned person to support the integration of skin screening and treatment into the NHIS. This intervention would save lives and offer hope to many,” she added.
Dr Bamishe also drew attention to the educational setbacks faced by students with albinism, particularly due to visual impairment, calling for the full implementation of the National Albinism Policy on Education.
She urged the relevant education authorities to ensure the provision of adequate learning aids and inclusive education strategies for persons with albinism in Nigeria.
Highlighting the association’s progress, Bamishe revealed that AAN has expanded its state chapters to 26 and is working to establish chapters in the remaining states.
She further disclosed that the association has been officially registered with national disability organisations and other government agencies and has acquired and furnished a national project office.
“Our recent achievements also include growing national recognition, influence, and strengthening our relationships with critical stakeholders,” she said.
Prof Sam Amadi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of AAN, in his address, commended the association’s structure and direction, noting that unity would be key to its continued success.
“When we are united, we can articulate our needs upwards. There are reforms going on, but there are still gaps. We need to do more in advocacy, especially in teaching and awareness in schools,” he said.
Also speaking, Kaura Wakili, Chairman of the FCT chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, acknowledged the unique challenges faced by people with albinism.
He applauded the resilience of the community and reaffirmed his organisation’s commitment to pushing for equal access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
“We must continue to push for better healthcare, equal opportunities in education, employment, and protection from all forms of discrimination,” Wakili said.
Afam Kasim, another stakeholder at the event, advised individuals with albinism to take proactive steps in protecting themselves from the sun to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
“Use sunscreen. If the Federal Government is supporting us, we should also protect ourselves. If we keep flaunting our skin to the sun, we will have issues,” Kasim advised.
The IAAD event was organised by AAN and attracted stakeholders from the public and private sectors, disability rights advocates, and executives of AAN from different states.
Participants expressed commitment to sustained advocacy for inclusive policies to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind.
The International Albinism Awareness Day is observed annually on June 13 to promote the rights and well-being of persons with albinism and raise awareness of the challenges they face.
