News Update
THE Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing policies geared towards fostering inclusivity in its education systems and guaranteeing better welfare for the people with Disabilities in the state.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, gave the assurance in Ado Ekiti during an event commemorating the International Albinism Awareness Day; the programme which was celebrated by her office in collaboration with the Office of Disability Affairs.
The event attracted over 300 persons with albinism from the 16 local government areas and Local Council Development Authorities (LCDAs), reflecting the government’s sustained commitment to the welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Addressing participants, Princess Agboola explained that the government is working out modalities that would give more sense of belonging to all students with special needs in Ekiti.
She maintained that Ekiti state would not be left out in the Federal Government’s plans to facilitate one education system for all across the country, irrespective of people’s physical and social differences.
She urged parents to regularly engage with their children’s schools to discuss strategies for supporting their specific challenges, emphasizing that collaboration between parents and educators was key to effective inclusion.
Princess Agboola, who commended members of the Ekiti State Albinism Association, assured them that the state government would continue to facilitate access to experts to address the unique challenges faced by persons with albinism while also encouraging participants to continue projecting Ekiti positively to attract more professionals, especially in the health sector.
She highlighted Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to addressing issues affecting persons with albinism, urging the community to sustain their support for his administration to continue beyond the first term.
According to her, the government remains dedicated to training and economically empowering members of the association who are unemployed or underemployed.
As part of the event, dermatologists from the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, Osun State, provided skin and blood examinations for all participants.
Led by Dr. Olufemi Ologun, the medical team conducted skin cancer screenings, offered consultations, and advised participants on protective measures.
Dr. Ologun highlighted the two major health challenges faced by persons with Albinism: lack of skin protection and vision problems, advising them to wear long clothing, hats, and sunglasses and avoid direct exposure to harsh sunlight.
In his remarks, Mr. Oniya Johnson Oluwafemi, Chairman of the Ekiti State chapter of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, emphasized that albinism is not a disease but a condition primarily affected by sun exposure, which can lead to skin cancers if not managed properly.
He thanked Governor Oyebanji and the Office of the Special Adviser Special Education and Social Inclusion for their consistent support, noting the provision of protective materials such as UV umbrellas and sunblock creams.
He also lauded the administration’s inclusive governance, citing employment and skill acquisition opportunities extended to persons with disabilities.
Mr Oluwafemi encouraged persons with albinism across the state to showcase their talents and contribute to Ekiti’s development.
He reaffirmed the association’s support for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid, expressing confidence in the administration’s continued assistance to the communities of PWDs.