OGUN PARTNERS ALBINO FOUNDATION TO FIGHT STIGMATIZATION
Ogun State Government has disclosed its readiness to partner with Albino Foundation, as a way to fight thescourge of skin cancer among Albinos in the state and equally eradicate the ignorance about myth behind albinism.
The Deputy Governor Mrs Yetunde Onanuga made this known in her speech at the public awareness campaign as part of the activities to mark the 1st Ogun National Albinism Day and fund raising of N5m to fight scourge of skin cancer among Albinos held in Abeokuta
Onanuga who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Rural Development,Olugbegi affirmed that victims of Albinism are also generally as healthy as the rest of the population.
“The matter being treated is very crucial at a time like this, as a lot of very disturbing notions and beliefs have been developed surrounding the group of people concerned’,the deputy governor stated
She emphasized further that those affected with albinism “are generally as healthy as the rest of the population, with growth and development occurring as normal as possible.
‘Albinism by itself does not cause mortality, although the lack of pigment blocking ultraviolet radiation increases the risk of melanomas (skin cancer) and other problems.”
Onanuga said that the event “is very timely and means a lot to this administration,” adding, “I also hope it will serve as an eye opener to all present, on the need to be more accommodating and more receptive of one another so as to bring about a more productive Ogun state and Nigeria at large.”
“Irrespective of tribe or tongue, needless to speak of your skin, the present administration is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and indeed all residents. As such, we are fully in support of this cause and with the help of the Almighty, will do all within our ability to protect everyone,” Onanuga stated.
Also speaking, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Afolabi Afuape advocated for the engagement of Albinos participation in sporting activities in the country.
He pointed out that,being an albino does not stop them from participating in any sporting activities of their choice, calling on Federal Government and major stakeholders in the sporting industry to encourage albinos involvement in sporting activities.
“There are so many in-door sporting activities that special people like albino can engage in. I will like to assure you that the Ministry of Sports will immediately enroll as many of you that have interest in sporting activities as the Governor has more interest in the success of the people with special needs in the society” he said.
In the same vein,Commissioner for Health, Dr. Babatunde Ipaye noted that the absent of Melanie tissue that protect the skin against harsh sun in their body system was the only reason that makes them different from other normal coloured persons in the society.
Ipaye added further that there should be no reason for being inferior or the stigmatization against people living with albinism.
The Commissioner represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr. Quudus Yusuf said for good looking skin Albino should stay away from direct sunlight, regular examining of their skin and should stay away from food substances that could triggers wrickles and sporting skin colour.
Earlier in her welcome address,State Coordinator, Albino Foundation, Ms. Peace Onuiri said challengies faced by albino ranges from fear, phobia, memory lost, stigmatization, harsh climate and inferiority complex.
She called on guidance in particular parents with albino to show them love, care and support, urging stakeholders to formulate policies and regulations in favour of the people living with albinism.
Onuiri said the first Ogun state Albino day was organized in order to further propagate the cause of Albinism having took off about five months ago in the state.
“Our aim is to propagate the cause of those with Albinism in the state and to tell the whole world that Albinism is not a curse but, a condition. We want to achieve removing the stigma and misconception surrounding an Albino. We want people to accept them and stop killing them.”
Pix attached: Group photograph of Albinos and Coordinator at the event
