By Lanre Oloyede
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, has called education experts and stakeholders to adopt a multi-faceted approach that addresses the various dimensions of inclusion in education.
Hon. Abba Isa stated this at a one-day strategic meeting with education experts and stakeholders with focus on advancing policy implementation on inclusive education for persons with albinism in Nigeria organized by the Albinism Association of Nigeria in collaboration with Disability Rights Fund.
According to the presidential aide, this approach includes providing adequate infrastructure and resources to support the unique needs of students with albinism, training teachers and staff on inclusive teaching methods, and raising awareness and dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding albinism.
The SSAP, who was represented at the meeting by his Chief Press Secretary, Mrs Patience Ochigbo, noted that inclusive education is not merely a goal; it is a fundamental human right.
Hon. Abba Isa maintained that in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the implementation of inclusive education policies will not be treated as a matter of choice but that of a necessity, stressing that it is a reflection of the commitment of this administration to equality, justice, and the fulfillment of every individual’s potential.
“Every individual, regardless of their abilities or differences, deserves access to quality education. However, for far too long, persons with albinism have been marginalized and overlooked in our educational system. Today, we gather to change that narrative.
“Persons with albinism face unique challenges in accessing education, from discrimination and stigma to inadequate support and resources. It is our duty, as advocates and policymakers, to dismantle these barriers and create an inclusive educational environment where every Nigerian, regardless of their skin color or physical attributes, can thrive.
“In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the implementation of inclusive education policies will not be treated as a matter of choice but that of a necessity. It is a reflection of the commitment of this administration to equality, justice, and the fulfillment of every individual’s potential. It is about creating a society where diversity is celebrated, not feared, and where every citizen has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress.
“To achieve this goal, we must adopt a multi-faceted approach that addresses the various dimensions of inclusion in education. This includes providing adequate infrastructure and resources to support the unique needs of students with albinism, training teachers and staff on inclusive teaching methods, and raising awareness and dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding albinism.
“Furthermore, we must work collaboratively with stakeholders at all levels – government agencies, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and the private sector – to develop and implement policies that promote inclusive education and ensure its effective implementation.
“My office is connected to 36 states of the federation and the FCT and we are open to partnership and collaborations. We are ready to work with you to change this narrative, to break down barriers, and to create a more inclusive educational system that caters to the diverse needs of all our citizens.
“As we gather here today, let us reaffirm our commitment to advancing the rights and opportunities of persons with albinism in Nigeria. Let us seize this moment to chart a course towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Together, we can build a society where every individual, regardless of their background or abilities, can contribute meaningfully and realize their full potential.
“Today, let us recommit ourselves to this noble cause. Let us work together, hand in hand, to develop and implement policies that promote inclusive education for persons with albinism. Let us ensure that our schools are safe, welcoming, and equipped to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
“But our work does not end here. We must also address the broader societal attitudes and perceptions that perpetuate discrimination and exclusion. We must educate our communities, challenge stereotypes, and foster a culture of acceptance and understanding” the SSAP stated.
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