AAN Urges Government Action, Public Awareness As Nigeria Marks National Albinism Day

AAN has called for government action and public awareness as Nigeria marks National Albinism Day.

NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has called for stronger government intervention and public awareness to address the health and social challenges faced by persons with albinism (PWAs), as Nigeria marks National Albinism Day.

The theme of this year’s commemoration, “Protect Your Skin, Be Sun Smart,” underscores the urgent need for inclusive policies, sun protection awareness, and improved access to healthcare.

In a press statement released on May 5, 2025, Dr. (Mrs.) Bisi Bamishe, National President of AAN, highlighted the increased health risks PWAs face due to their lack of melanin, including painful sunburns, vision impairments, and a heightened vulnerability to skin cancer, particularly among those living in rural areas with limited access to healthcare.

“Preventive measures such as the use of sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, and regular medical checkups are vital,” Bamishe said. “But many persons with albinism cannot afford these essentials, which is why government intervention is crucial.”

The association called on federal and state governments to include sunscreen as an essential drug under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and to subsidize or provide free protective gear and healthcare services tailored to PWAs.

AAN also urged greater training for healthcare workers and educators to better address the specific needs of the albinism community, and called for the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, including the full implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act.

Beyond healthcare, the association stressed the need for data collection on PWAs to support effective policy development, and encouraged partnerships with NGOs, the private sector, and international donors.

Founded in 2019, the AAN has made strides in reducing stigma, improving educational access, and pushing for albinism to be prioritized in national health and disability discussions. It has also forged partnerships with civil society, donor agencies, and government bodies such as the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).

“We envision a Nigeria where persons with albinism are safe, empowered, and included,” Bamishe said. “Let us all be sun smart and stand for inclusion.”

The association expressed gratitude to supporters, including volunteers, media partners, and donor organizations such as the Disability Rights Fund (DRF) and the Joint National Association for Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), for advancing the cause of albinism rights in Nigeria.