The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has called for the swift intervention of the governments at all levels following the loss of its three (3) members to skin cancer.
The National President of AAN, Dr. Mrs. Bisi Bamishe who made the call in a statement made available to Thelensng on Sunday decried the health challenges facing Persons with Albinism (PWAs) in Nigeria, noting that its continuous advocacy efforts remain “unaddressed”.
Dr. Bamishe stressed that its members are grappling with various health problems, particularly skin cancer, which has resulted in deaths.
Her words: “The Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) stands before the nation today with deep sorrow and grave concern over the escalating health crisis facing persons with albinism (PWAs) in Nigeria. Our people are dying in silence, with little to no awareness of the immense health challenges we endure, particularly the devastating impact of skin cancer.
“Despite our continuous advocacy efforts, the plight of persons with albinism remains largely unaddressed, and the consequences are dire. Within just a few days, we have lost three of our beloved members to this ravaging disease.
“Even as we speak, many others are battling for their lives. Some lying helpless in hospitals, while others struggle in their homes without access to proper medical care or hope for survival. The grim reality is that the community of persons with albinism in Nigeria is under siege, and urgent action is required to prevent further loss of lives.”
She noted the importance of amplifying the voices of PWAs in Nigeria ahead of the commemoration of the 2025 World Cancer Day on Tuesday, February 4, themed “United by Unique”.
“We seize this moment to amplify the voices of persons with albinism in Nigeria. The theme speaks to the power of unity in addressing the global cancer burden, and now more than ever, we call on the federal, state, and local governments, the legislative arms at all levels, well-meaning individuals, local and international donors, and relevant stakeholders to stand with us in the fight against this dreaded disease,” the AAN President remarked.
According the her, PWAs in Nigeria over the years have faced significant health challenges, including extreme vulnerability to skin cancer due to the lack of melanin in their skin.
She explained that the absence of structured government interventions, including access to free or subsidised skin cancer treatments, preventive measures such as sunscreen distribution, and specialised dermatological care, has left their community in a state of despair.
“Without immediate action, we will continue to witness the preventable deaths of our members,” Bamishe said, emphasising that the association in its efforts to address the crisis, has carried out multiple advocacy visits to key national and state stakeholders, raising awareness about the pressing health needs of persons with albinism.
President Bamishe disclosed that the association has engaged policymakers, health authorities, and legislators, and urged them to implement sustainable policies that will ensure access to affordable healthcare, routine skin cancer screening, and the provision of lifesaving treatments for affected persons.
However, she mentioned that the time for mere discussions has passed, adding that “we need tangible, swift, and decisive actions to save lives.”
Consequently, she highlighted AAN’s 5 urgent appeals including the inclusion of PWAs in government healthcare programs. As regards this, she urged the Federal Ministry of Health to integrate free and subsidised skin cancer treatment, early screening, and regular dermatological check-ups for persons with albinism in public hospitals. She also proposed that skin cancer should be included in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
The President equally pointed out the provision of sunscreen and protective gear, noting that sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and protective clothing should be made accessible and affordable, especially to low-income PWAs, through government intervention programs and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Other appeals are: “Legislative Support and Policy Implementation: We call on lawmakers at all levels to pass and implement policies that recognize and address the specific health challenges of persons with albinism, including budgetary allocations for skin cancer prevention and treatment.
“Partnerships with Local and International Organizations: We seek collaboration with global health organizations, donor agencies, and research institutions to develop long-term solutions that will improve the healthcare and quality of life for PWAs in Nigeria.
“Public Awareness and Sensitization Campaigns: There is a need for nationwide educational campaigns to enlighten both PWAs and the general public on the importance of early detection, preventive measures, and available treatment options.”
However, she acknowledged the efforts of some state governors, development partners and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that have done a lot for AAN.
Bamishe expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for spending over ₦20 million on skin cancer patients in the last two years as well as provision of sunscreen, hats and umbrellas – and called on other states for support.
She further stated that the lives of AAN members are precious, and the association cannot afford to remain passive in the face of the growing crisis.
“We stand united by unique challenges, but we also believe in the collective power of government intervention, public support, and global solidarity to change the narrative for persons with albinism in Nigeria.
“On this World Cancer Day 2025, we call on everyone: leaders, policymakers, health professionals, civil society organizations, corporate bodies, and compassionate individuals to take action. Let us work together to reduce, and ultimately eliminate, the burden of skin cancer among persons with albinism. The time to act is now,” she added.
