By Abiodun Elugbaju
As Nigerians living with visual impairment joined their counterparts across the world to commemorate the 2025 International White Cane and Safety Day, stakeholders have called on governments at all levels to prioritise the inclusion of persons with visual impairment in political and socio-economic activities.
Themed “Vision Beyond Sight: Celebrating Independence, Resilience, and Recognizing Achievements of the Blind,” this year’s event in Lagos highlighted the importance of empowerment, accessibility, and equal opportunities for the visually impaired community.
Speaking during the celebration, the Chairman of the Nigerian Association of the Blind (NAB), Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Babatunde Shafiu, emphasised the global significance of the day in raising awareness about the abilities and potential of persons with visual impairment.
Mr Shafiu urged the government, individuals, and private organisations to see inclusion as a national development goal that can unlock the talents of the visually impaired through meaningful employment and engagement.
Also speaking during a rally walk held as part of the event, the Chairman of the 2025 White Cane Day Organising Committee, Mr. Adeola Aina, criticised the poor state of infrastructure in Lagos, noting that many roads and walkways remain unsafe for persons using mobility canes.
Mr Ana urged the government to ensure that drainage channels are properly covered and pedestrian paths are kept free from illegal traders to enable the visually impaired to move freely and safely.
Representing the Director of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Dr. Kelani Akeem, the Director of Administration, Mrs. Nike Lawal, commended NAB for its continued advocacy and reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
Dr. Akeem noted that the mobility cane symbolises independence and intellectual strength, adding that with proper support, citizens with visual impairment can make meaningful contributions in various fields.
He reiterated that LASODA remains dedicated to actualising the dreams and aspirations of citizens with visual impairment and other clusters of persons with disabilities across the state.
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