BY NGOZI ONYEAKUSI

Participations at the event

The Executive Director, Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), Dr Bisi Bamishe has called on Govt to make albinism inclusive commitments at 2025 GDS.

Bamishe made call at a one-day inception meeting of the association in Abuja.

Read her full text of speech

 

Distinguished Guests, Esteemed AAN Team Members, Respected Consultant, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with immense pleasure and a deep sense of commitment that I welcome you all to this pivotal one-day inception meeting for the project titled: “Voices from the Field – From Commitment to Action: Implementing the Global Disability Summit Pledges for Persons with Albinism and Marginalized Groups.” This initiative, generously funded by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), represents a significant step toward ensuring that the pledges made at the Global Disability Summit are transformed into tangible actions for the benefit of persons with albinism and other marginalized groups across Nigeria.
Let me begin by expressing my heartfelt gratitude to the Disability Rights Fund for their unwavering support and for believing in the potential of this project to create lasting change. Their partnership reinforces our shared vision of a more inclusive and equitable society for all, particularly for those who have historically been overlooked and underserved.
The importance of today’s meeting cannot be overstated. As we gather here at the Bestway Suite in the heart of Abuja, we are setting the stage for what promises to be a transformative journey. This meeting is not merely a formality; it is the foundation upon which the success of this project will be built. It is an opportunity to bring our collective expertise, experiences, and insights to the table to ensure that we start strong and remain steadfast in our commitment to achieving the objectives of this initiative.

The primary purpose of this initiative is to ensure that Nigeria takes a bold and inclusive stance at the 2025 Global Disability Summit (GDS) coming up in April. We envision a summit where Nigerian government will make tangible commitments that will reflect the true needs and aspirations of persons with albinism and other marginalised groups.
However, our work goes beyond commitments made on a global stage. We aim to ensure that the commitments secured at the summit are not left as mere pledges but are implemented upon our government’s return. The post-summit phase is particularly crucial, as it is the time for action, accountability, and results that will transform lives.
One of our key priorities is to make certain that these commitments are not created in isolation. They must be informed by the lived experiences and contributions of the disability community, represented under the umbrella of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD). Through this project, we will amplify the voices of all stakeholders, ensuring inclusivity and equity in decision-making processes.
The project “Voices from the Field” is more than a program, it is a call to action. It challenges us to move beyond rhetoric and take deliberate steps to improve the lives of persons with albinism and other marginalized groups. It is about turning commitments into actions, promises into realities, and aspirations into achievements.

Therefore, the primary goals of today’s meeting are to:
1. Clarify the overall goals and objectives of the project: We need to ensure that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the vision and purpose of this initiative. What do we aim to achieve? Who are the beneficiaries? What are the key outcomes we envision?
2. Map out a comprehensive strategy for effective project implementation: A well-thought-out strategy is crucial for the successful execution of any project. Today, we will brainstorm, deliberate, and agree on the best approaches to achieve our goals while addressing potential challenges.
3. Assign roles and responsibilities for smooth execution: Effective teamwork hinges on clarity of roles. We will outline the specific responsibilities of each team member and the consultant to foster accountability and collaboration.
4. Finalize timelines and deliverables: Setting realistic and actionable timelines is essential for tracking progress and ensuring that we remain on course. We will also identify key deliverables that will serve as benchmarks for success.

We recognize that persons with albinism and the other marginalised groups face unique challenges, including stigmatization, discrimination, and lack of access to critical resources and opportunities. These issues are further compounded by systemic barriers that hinder their full participation in society. This project seeks to address these challenges by advocating for inclusive policies, promoting awareness, and ensuring that the pledges made at the Global Disability Summit are implemented effectively at the grassroots level.“`
As we embark on this journey, I urge us all to approach our discussions today with open minds and a shared determination to make a difference. Let us be guided by the principles of inclusivity, equity, and collaboration. Let us leverage our diverse perspectives and expertise to craft solutions that are both innovative and sustainable.
To our distinguished consultant, we look forward to your insights and guidance in shaping the direction of this project with the support from our technical unit. Your expertise is invaluable, and we are confident that your contributions will significantly enhance the impact of this initiative.
To the dedicated members of the AAN team, your commitment and passion are the driving forces behind our success. This project is an opportunity to showcase the strength of our collective efforts and to demonstrate that when we work together, we can overcome even the most formidable challenges.
As we proceed with today’s agenda, let us remain focused on our shared mission and keep the beneficiaries of this project at the forefront of our minds. Their stories, their struggles, and their aspirations are the reasons we are here today. They are the reason we do what we do.
In closing, I would like to reiterate my gratitude to each and every one of you for your presence and participation. Together, we have the power to effect meaningful change and to create a society where persons with albinism and other marginalized groups can thrive and realize their full potential.
Thank you, and I wish us all a productive and impactful meeting.

God bless you all.

Dr Bisi Bamishe