T inhe Albinism Association of Nigeria (AAN) has called on the Federal Government to fully implement Nigeria’s pledges made at the Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025, particularly those relating to the rights and inclusion of persons with albinism and other marginalized disability groups.
The appeal was made during a one-day media roundtable held in Kano as part of a national advocacy campaign supported by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), aimed at turning summit commitments into tangible action.
In her opening remarks, Mariya Ishaaka, Vice President of AAN, said the event brought together stakeholders from government, the media, civil society, and the disability community to reflect on the GDS 2025 commitments and push for their full and timely implementation.
“Today’s gathering is part of our broader effort to ensure that no one is left behind. We appreciate the support of the DRF and urge both federal and state governments to accelerate inclusive development,” she said.
Also speaking, Dr. Mrs. Bisi Bamishe, National President of AAN, emphasized the role of the media in holding authorities accountable for the pledges made at the GDS, which took place in Germany from April 1 to 3. She noted that the commitments were submitted by the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and that the campaign will continue in other states such as Bayelsa.
“Beyond this Kano meeting, we plan to replicate this advocacy in other states to ensure that the voices of persons with disabilities are not only heard but respected in policy and practice,” she said.
Addressing participants, the Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to disability inclusion. He disclosed that the process of establishing a Commission for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Kano was underway at the State House of Assembly.
“We are hopeful that very soon, the legislative process will be completed and His Excellency will assent to the bill,” Waiya said. “Once established, the commission will have its own leadership, budget, and funding mechanism to address the needs of the PWD community.”
“This government will not relent until people with disabilities have a strong institutional representation in Kano State,” he vowed.
The roundtable, themed “Voices from the Field: From Commitment to Action,” was widely lauded by attendees as a vital step toward ensuring that national and international disability rights obligations translate into practical benefits for affected communities.
