The Lagos State Government joined the world to mark the International Albinism Awareness Day with a public lecture themed “promoting the well-being of Albino Pupils and Students in Lagos State”.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Adebunmi Adekanye, counselled that, the protection of Albino’s skin from the sun is very important because they are more sensitive to sun exposure.
She noted that the melanin which normally protects the skin from UV (ultraviolet) damage is in short supply and that is responsible for the difference in colour of the eyes, skin and hair.
To help Albino pupils and students in Lagos State in this direction, the state government gave out free sun screen bathing soap and body lotion to help them in skin management and reduce the risk of skin cancer. She also urged them to wear sun glasses to mitigate the effect of the sun on their eyes and vision.
While acknowledging that Albinism could be challenging, she emphasised that it does not limit the success of anyone, adding that there was no reason for any albino to feel inferior. She charged the pupils and students to be focused, challenge themselves in any field of their choice and they will excel.
A guest lecturer, Dr Edi Onyinye Prisca, said in her paper: “Managing low Vision with Albinism”, advised people with Albinism to avoid exposing their eyes to the sun, manage their movement to avoid collision and sit at vantage positions in class to enable them see properly.
Mrs. Josephine Omolola, in her lecture “Total Care for Albino Child”, counselled parents to show love and care for their albino children and expose them to education. She opined that, like every other children, albinos are undeniably special gifts from God and parents, neighbours, relations and indeed the society should support them to grow and attain the peak of their careers to enable them contribute to the development of the nation.