The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), Kwara State Chapter, on Wednesday commemorated the 2026 International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD) with a strong call for greater inclusion, equal opportunities, and respect for persons with albinism.
The event, held at the Registry Hall of the Kwara State Ministry of Social Development in Ilorin, was themed "Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones." It brought together government officials, disability advocates, healthcare professionals, development partners, community leaders, media practitioners, and members of the albinism community.
In his opening address, the State Chairman of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, Abdulsalam Kehinde Hussein, expressed appreciation to the Kwara State Government for its commitment to promoting inclusion, equity, and social justice for persons with disabilities, including persons with albinism.
He particularly commended the Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for creating an enabling environment that supports vulnerable groups and promotes equal opportunities for all citizens.
The chairman also appreciated the Kwara State Ministry of Social Development, led by the Honourable Commissioner, Dr. Nna Fatimah Mariam, for sponsoring the celebration and for its continued support toward the welfare and empowerment of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
He further acknowledged the support and presence of the Office of the First Lady of Kwara State, Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq, Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors' Spouses Forum and Founder of the Ajike People Support Centre, alongside representatives of government ministries, departments and agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, disability rights groups, security agencies, educational institutions, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
Speaking on the significance of the theme, Hussein described it as a powerful message that celebrates diversity and promotes self-confidence among persons with albinism.
He noted that many persons with albinism continue to face discrimination, stigma, harmful myths, bullying, and barriers to education, healthcare, employment, and social participation due to misconceptions surrounding the condition.
According to him, albinism is a genetic condition and should not be viewed as a curse, disease, or limitation to human potential.
"Persons with albinism possess the same aspirations, talents, intelligence, and capacity to contribute meaningfully to society as every other citizen," he said.
Addressing members of the albinism community, Hussein encouraged them to embrace their identity and remain proud of who they are, stressing that their skin colour should never be a source of shame or discrimination.
He also called on government institutions and policymakers to sustain and strengthen inclusive policies that protect the rights and dignity of persons with albinism and other persons with disabilities.
The AAN chairman urged educational institutions, media organisations, families, community leaders, and civil society groups to continue promoting awareness, acceptance, and inclusion through collaborative efforts.
He emphasized that building a society where everyone is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness requires collective commitment from all stakeholders.
The event concluded with a renewed call for greater public awareness, the elimination of discrimination, and the creation of a more inclusive society where every individual, regardless of skin colour or physical condition, can live with dignity and equal opportunities.
International Albinism Awareness Day is observed annually to raise awareness about albinism, promote the rights of persons with albinism, and combat discrimination and harmful stereotypes across the world.
.jpeg)