The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities and the Nigerian Association of the Blind have marked the International White Cane Day in Abuja, calling for stronger enforcement of disability rights and inclusive infrastructure across the country.
The annual event, held globally every October 15, celebrates the independence and mobility of persons with visual impairments while promoting public awareness on accessibility and safety.
In a statement signed by Ishaku Kigbu, Head of Media and Publicity, the event began with a sensitisation walk from Eagle Square to the National Women Development Centre to draw attention to the rights and mobility needs of blind persons in Nigeria.
Speaking at the gathering, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Hon. Ayuba Gufwan, described the white cane as a symbol of dignity and freedom, stressing the importance of inclusive education and assistive technologies for learners with visual impairments. He said the Commission is working with federal and state authorities to ensure public infrastructure and transportation systems are accessible.
Representing the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Mr. Andrew Amos reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive governance, noting that no citizen should be left behind in national development.
Also speaking, the representative of the Disability Rights Fund, Mr. Theophilus Odaodu, called for sustained advocacy to ensure accessibility standards are upheld across public and private institutions.
The National President of the Nigerian Association of the Blind, Mr. Onyebuchi Stanley Nnamdi, urged government at all levels to enforce White Cane Laws and appealed to the FCT Minister to support the Association in securing a permanent national secretariat in Abuja.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of assistive devices by the NCPWD through its Director of Social Integration, Mr. Lawrence Idemudia. Items distributed included Braille machines, Orbit readers, talking calculators, guide canes, Braille watches and other mobility tools to support persons with visual impairments.
The event ended with the presentation of awards to individuals and organisations recognised for their contribution to disability inclusion and advocacy in Nigeria.
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