Advocacy groups and human rights campaigners have called on the Nigerian government and society at large to take immediate and decisive steps to protect the rights, health, and dignity of persons with albinism (PWA), as the world marks International Albinism Awareness Day, June 13.
In a statement signed by Tubosun Olabomi, Executive Director of One House Development Initiative, the group urged government at all levels to include persons with albinism in national health insurance schemes, ensure access to essential medical support such as sunscreen, anti-blue light glasses, and vision aids, and enforce anti-discrimination laws to protect their rights.
“Albinism is not a curse, not a disease — it is a genetic condition. What we need is protection, not pity. What we demand is equity, not exclusion,” Olabomi said.
“Despite this, persons with albinism in Nigeria — estimated to number over two million — face daily discrimination, health challenges, and social exclusion. In some communities, harmful superstitions label them as ghosts, cursed beings, or individuals with mystical powers, fueling violence, stigmatization, and in some cases, ritual attacks.
“Many Nigerians with albinism die young, not because the condition is fatal, but because they lack access to protection and care — particularly against skin cancer caused by harsh sun exposure,” Olabomi said.
To address these issues, he recommended the “Inclusion of persons with albinism in government-backed health insurance covering dermatological and visual care, Provision of protective items such as sunscreen, UV-coated umbrellas, and anti-blue light glasses, Nationwide media and school-based campaigns to dispel myths and educate the public.
” Teacher training to ensure inclusive and accessible classrooms, Enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and swift prosecution of attacks or abuse, Economic and political empowerment, including representation in leadership and skills development programs”, he recommended.
Olabomi stressed the importance of shifting the public narrative through inclusive media representation and celebration of role models with albinism, stating, “Inclusion begins with awareness, and awareness must translate into action.”
“The UN affirms that everyone has a right to live in dignity and safety — and that includes people with albinism,” Olabomi said. “Stigma and ignorance must end. Now is the time to act, to protect lives, and to build a society where no one is left behind.”
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