The Albino Foundation (TAF) yesterday urged the Federal Government to create awareness on the rights of Albinos and include albinism in government programmes, policies and projects.
Mr Jake Epelle, Founder of the foundation in Nigeria, made the call in an interview with newsmen in Abuja.
June 13 every year is set aside by the UN as global Albinism Awareness Day to create both national and global awareness on the human rights of persons with albinism.
“It recognises the importance of increasing awareness and understanding of albinism to fight against global discrimination and stigma against persons with albinism.
“There is need for government to urgently put in place measures to create greater awareness on the social challenges albinos face to address their plight,’’ Epelle said.
According to him, albinism is a global phenomenon that occurs in people of all races and gender due to lack of melanin pigment.
He said Nigeria was estimated to have one of the highest albinism prevalence rates in the world with children constituting 40 per cent.
“Albinos over the years have suffered discrimination, stigmatisation, health hazards, impaired vision, economic deprivation, lack of access to quality education, among others.
“Skin cancer is the highest health risk that albinos face because of their delicate skin type, especially when exposed to the sun,’’ He said.
He urged stakeholders, partners and various civil society organisations to take steps to address the plight of Abinos.
Mr Jake Epelle
