The Ekiti State Government has restated its unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity in education and enhancing the welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), aligning with the Federal Government’s vision for a unified education system across Nigeria.
Speaking at an event commemorating the International Albinism Awareness Day in Ado Ekiti, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, emphasized the administration’s resolve to implement inclusive policies that cater to the needs of all learners, including students with special needs.
The celebration, organized in partnership with the Office of Disability Affairs, drew over 300 participants with albinism from across Ekiti’s 16 local government areas and Local Council Development Authorities (LCDAs), underlining the state’s dedication to disability inclusion.
Princess Agboola assured attendees that modalities are being developed to promote a sense of belonging and equal opportunity for all students regardless of physical or social differences. “Ekiti will not be left behind in the Federal Government’s drive for a unified and inclusive education system,” she said.
She urged parents and guardians of children with special needs to actively collaborate with schools to address individual challenges, stressing that inclusive education thrives on strong home-school partnerships.
Commending the Ekiti State Albinism Association, Princess Agboola pledged continued government support in providing access to medical experts and necessary resources to address the unique needs of persons with albinism. She also encouraged the community to help attract professionals—especially in the healthcare sector—by showcasing Ekiti in a positive light.
Highlighting the vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, she reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to economic empowerment and vocational training for unemployed or underemployed members of the association.
A key highlight of the event was a comprehensive health outreach by dermatologists from the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife. Led by Dr. Olufemi Ologun, the team conducted skin and blood tests, provided skin cancer screenings, and offered consultations on preventive care.
Dr. Ologun identified lack of skin protection and vision impairment as the two most pressing health issues for persons with albinism, recommending the use of UV-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and avoidance of direct sunlight exposure.
In his remarks, Mr. Oniya Johnson Oluwafemi, Chairman of the Ekiti State chapter of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, clarified that albinism is a genetic condition—not a disease—primarily affected by sun exposure. He expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji and the Office of the Special Adviser for their sustained support, particularly the provision of UV umbrellas, sunblock creams, and economic inclusion programs.
Mr. Oluwafemi encouraged members of the albinism community to harness their talents for the betterment of Ekiti and reaffirmed the association’s support for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term ambition, citing confidence in the administration’s continued advocacy for disability rights.
