A non-governmental organisation, Anglo Nigeria Welfare for the Blind (ANWAB), has called for effective cushioning mechanism for persons living with disabilities, specifically the virtually disabled persons.
Its Director, Mr Danlami Basharu, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on the sideline of the fund raising dinner and graduation of the Resource Centre for the Blind (RCB), a Jubrila Ayinla Foundation, held on Sunday.
NAN reports that three students with virtual disability graduated from the Centre after completing one year of rehabilitation.
Basharu said that cushioning the effect of any disability was most important and that mechanism such as digital tools, braile paper and others could be provided.
“We need people to understand the various disabilities that are prevalent in our society, find out how best they can get themselves mainstreamed into the world of persons with disabilities.
‘’Significantly, society must learn to support parents of persons with disabilities to continue to give that love and care that children and all persons with disabilities desire.
‘’More importantly, legislation is the key to creating an acceptable and accessible environment for all persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
“And supporting the work of NGOs for the blind and other persons with disabilities is most important,’’ he said.
Retired Adm. Jubrila Ayinla, Founder, Jubrila Ayinla Foundation, said that the event was to create awareness on the needs of the virtually disabled as they graduate.
Ayinla said that with help and support, one could put a glimmer of hope in the lives of the visually impaired.
He said that RCB plays a central role in supporting and contributing to the achievements and realisation of Sustainable Development Goals.
One of the graduands, Rukewe Agbiwe, 19, who suffered morning glory syndrome at an early age which rendered her partially sighted, appreciated RCB for the opportunity.
She, however, encouraged people with disabilities to see ability in their disabilities and make the best use of the opportunity.
NAN also reports that the foundation has a mission to educate, inspire and empower those with visual impairment to live an independent life. (NAN)
