As part of the activities lined up for the commemoration of the 2023 International Albinism Awareness Day, the Chief Promoter of the Albino Movement, Mr. Kola Olomide has called for the inclusion of people living with albinism in politics, governance and general administration of the country.
Olomide, who stated this in a statement on Tuesday, said this would go a long way in erasing many of the wrong perceptions and extremely unfounded myths associated with this class of people.
He reiterated that June 13 is the international albinism awareness day set aside by the United Nations to advance the interest of Albinos and strengthen education and advocacy on the concept of Albinism all over the world.
Talking about the theme for this year, which is: “Inclusion is strength”, Olomide explained that the theme focusses on the importance of inclusion of not just people of all races and ethnicities who are affected by albinism but also the young and old population.
“The theme is certainly a bold attempt at making case for the inclusion of albinos in politics, governance and general administration of the country.
“Many of them have been found to be highly intelligent, cerebral, competent and capable of delivering great results in their private endeavors.
“These potentials need to be explored on a larger scale for the benefit of the society.
“This level of inclusion would encourage albinos, their parents and the general public to send such children to school to pursue professional and vocational careers and become respected leaders in the society.” Olomide stated.
He commended Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde for his inclusion of physically challenged people in his government during his first term in office. He urged the governor to do more for these people as it reduces their life’s challenge.
“Governor Seyi Makinde deserves special commendation in his first term for his level of involvement and inclusion of “Differently Able Persons” in his government, with a call to increase the tempo by accommodating Albinos in executive and managerial positions in his second term”, he said.
Olomide also called on parents and relatives of albinos to take their education and well-being seriously as it remains the only weapon of empowerment and liberation to deal with the challenges of life they face daily.
“It is also an opportunity implore parents and relations of Albinos to ensure that they are enrolled in school as education remains the most potent weapon to liberate man, confront stigmatisation and overcome oppression which an average Albino is exposed to in Nigeria and Africa at large.”
The United Nations first celebrated International Albinism Awareness Day on May 4th, 2006. The theme for this year is “Inclusion is strength.”
