File: An Albino

The Albino Foundation (TAF) on Monday says it is taking steps to stop the abuse and discriminations against albinos in Nigeria and as well create awareness on their rights.

Mr Jake Epelle, President of the foundation, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja to commemorate the International Albinism Awareness Day scheduled for June 13.

According to Epelle, the International Albinism Awareness Day celebration is aimed at drawing attention to states and members of the public on the challenges faced by persons with albinism.

“The celebration is as a result of the wide spread discrimination, stigmatisation and dehumanisation persons with albinism face.

“As well as the human right abuse and brutal killings around the world, especially in Africa,’’ he said.

Epelle stated that the celebration was a follow up of the 69th Session of United Nations General Assembly Declaration on Dec. 14, 2014.

He said the declaration stated that the International Albinism Awareness Day should be celebrated annually on June 13.

He said that in observing the day, the foundation would be organising a press conference and a workshop to educate persons with albinism on their various health challenges.

NAN reports that TAF is an NGO committed to addressing the plight of persons with albinism in Nigeria and the world, to assist and empower them to find their rightful place in the society.

The foundation is also trying to create awareness of the social challenges persons with albinism face by working with government and development institutions in areas that improve their health and wellbeing.

(NAN)