The National President of the Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN), Dr. Bisi Bamishe, has reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to advancing inclusion, strengthening advocacy, and expanding national influence for Persons with Albinism (PWAs) in Nigeria. She made this declaration in her keynote address delivered at the AAN Strategic Meeting held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, in Kwara State, where she addressed AAN State Chairmen, members of the National Executive Council, the technical team, community members, partners, and advocates from across the country.
Dr. Bamishe expressed deep appreciation for the unity and resilience demonstrated by members of the Association over the years. She highlighted the significant progress recorded through initiatives such as the Integrated Education, Health, and Climate Resilience Project, which has enhanced AAN’s engagement with stakeholders at both national and state levels. She noted that AAN has successfully strengthened partnerships with ministries, the media, civil society organizations, organizations of persons with disabilities, and international partners. Through community engagements, capacity building, monitoring tools, and awareness campaigns, AAN has amplified the voices of PWAs and expanded its visibility, especially in the lead-up to the Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025.
While acknowledging several challenges including funding limitations, data gaps, communication barriers, and societal stigma; Dr. Bamishe emphasized that these obstacles have presented valuable lessons. She noted that intentional inclusion, evidence-based advocacy, collaboration, and internal empowerment are essential foundations for sustainable progress. She affirmed that AAN has evolved into a strong, credible national movement influencing policy discussions and promoting disability rights.
She further stated that AAN’s visibility has grown significantly across Nigeria. With a broadening network comprising state chapters, government ministries, media partners, civil society groups, donor agencies, and global advocacy platforms, the Association is steadily expanding its influence in education policy, public health, climate resilience, and human rights discourse. She stressed that this progress is a result of deliberate effort and strategic positioning.
Speaking on the purpose of the strategic meeting in Kwara State, Dr. Bamishe explained that the gathering was convened to strengthen leadership, evaluate state-level activities, and take evidence-based decisions that will shape the future of the Association. She noted that the meeting was not merely a routine engagement but a strategic realignment meant to reinforce leadership structures, analyze key findings, and adopt proactive measures to enhance AAN’s effectiveness, sustainability, and national impact.
In her remarks, Dr. Bamishe expressed heartfelt appreciation to all AAN State Chairmen, the national executives, the technical team, and partners such as the Disability Rights Fund (DRF) for their continued commitment to the dignity and rights of PWAs. She also commended the Kwara State Chapter for hosting and supporting the national gathering.
In conclusion, Dr. Bamishe called on all stakeholders to remain united, committed, and forward-looking. She reiterated AAN’s dedication to transforming lives, changing perceptions, and rewriting the narrative of albinism in Nigeria. She emphasized that the Association is steadfast in building a nation where Persons with Albinism are not only included but fully respected, empowered, and able to thrive.
