By Uzo Ugwunze
The Vivygold Foundation has restated its commitment to tackling multifaceted challenges faced by persons with albinism including violence, discrimination and poor access to essential services.
Managing Director, Dr Victor Ezeonwumelu stated this on the occasion of international Albinism Awareness Day and Unveiling of Vivigold Foundation marking significant milestone in the advocacy for the rights, health, and dignity of persons with albinism in Nigeria.
The event themed, “Demanding Our Rights, Protect our Skins, Preserve our lives” was held in collaboration with Anambra state Disabilities Right Commission and Vivigold Foundation.
Ezeonwumelu expressed worry over disturbing frequency of attacks fuelled by harmful myths and superstitions, calling for a united societal effort to dispel false beliefs and foster a culture of respect and protection.
He listed the group’s vision to include a society where a child with albinism plays freely in the sun, protected and proud, met not with albinism, but valued for their talents.
He called on government and policy makers to partner with the group through strengthening of laws, funding of inclusive healthcare as well as making albinism a national priority, noting that their inaction could cost lives.
“To Educators & School Administrators, we call you to open your doors wider. Train your staff. Embrace every child’s potential. Be the sanctuary of learning they deserve. Be the shield against the sun and the healer in times of need.
“To Media & Influencers: Amplify our message. Tell the true stories of brilliance and resilience. Drown out the myths with truth.
“To Healthcare Professionals: Join our clinic network. Offer your expertise. To Every Nigerian Citizen: Open your eyes. Open your hearts. Embrace every child’s potential,” he added.
Earlier, State Chairman, Anambra state Albinism Association (ASAA), Israel Orizu disclosed that the body has not recorded any loss among persons with albinism in the State since last year.
He described the death-free record as major milestone and testimony to the group’s collective efforts in improving access to healthcare, spreading awareness, and strengthening community bonds.
He however identified urgent realities confronting the body, including management of nine active cases of skin cancer among his members which he said required critical and specialized medical care.
“At present, we are managing nine active cases of skin cancer among persons with albinism in Anambra State. These cases require critical and specialized medical care.
“To this end, we are appealing for support towards our Medical Trust Fund — to help us procure essential sun protection gadgets.
“Among the gadgets are sunscreen, protective clothing, and specialized eyewear, and to finance skin cancer intervention treatments. These resources are not luxuries; they are necessities for survival,” he added.
The ASAA boss expressed gratitude to Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) for enrolling 70 of their members under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) and granting them access to free medical insurance coverage.
While noting that the intervention has been life-saving, Orizu expressed hope for more inclusion in the coming months.
“We also appeal to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to extend insurance coverage for persons with albinism beyond the state.
“This will enable us access to hospitals equipped with chemotherapy and radiotherapy services, which are vital for effective skin cancer treatment,” he stressed.
Representative of Anambra Health Insurance Agency ASHIA, Dr. Adaeke Okechi confirmed that 70 persons with albinism have benefitted from the agency’s free health insurance, promising extension of the free health coverage to another one year.
Rev. Fr. Jude Uwakwe, in a goodwill message, expressed appreciation to the foundation and supporters of the albinism cause, calling for increased national support and praying for divine blessings on all advocates.
The event featured panel discussion anchored by Chidimma Anajemba and empowerment session where children with albinism received school bags containing food flasks, water bottles and umbrellas to support their education and protection.