(http://fmi.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Ezenwo-Nyesom-Wike-201x300.jpg) The Minister of State for Education, Barrister Nyesom Wike has assured the Albino Foundation (AF) of greater relationship over issues related to Albinism Education in Nigeria.
Barrister Wike gave the assurance at a ceremony marking the 2013 National Albinism Day in Abuja, saying that the Federal Government was determined to address the challenges faced by the Albinos in the course of their educational pursuit.
The Minister who was represented by the Director of Basic Education in the Ministry, Barrister DC Uwaezuoke said that the Federal Government in the present dispensation was very passionate about Albinism Education programme for which a blue print of the policy had been drafted and currently undergoing processes for final endorsement and implementation in the government circle.
The President and Founder of the Albino Foundation, Mr. Jake Epelle, acknowledged the immense contributions in the Albino project in recent times, citing organizations that have been very supportive of the project to include President Goodluck Jonathan, Office of the Nigerian First Lady, Secretary to Government of the Federation, Federal Ministries of Education, Ministry of Health, Women Affairs as well as the National Directorate of Employment and many other organizations which have contributed in one way or the other to the advancement of the albino community in Nigeria.
Mr. Epelle encouraged fellow albinos to see themselves as equal to any other human being and not allow themselves to be discriminated. As he stressed that the way to be relevant is to receive sound education that would qualify them into various professional bodies in a competitive labour market.
He strongly condemned the reported killing of Albinos for ritual purposes in some parts of the country, citing the recent cases in Ogun, Benue and Delta States
Series of enlightenment lectures were delivered on how to cope with Albino challenges such as wearing sunglasses, applying sun screen cream, wearing long sleeves and long pants of tightly woven fabric, hats with wide brim and avoid going out in the sun without requisite protective devices.
Well meaning individuals were encouraged to identify poor albinos in their environment and offer them support through provision of needed materials to remain healthy.
Via: Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Nigeria