The Federal Nigerian Society for the Blind (FNSB) has called for the formulation and implementation of policies that guarantee equal opportunities and promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
The Society’s Executive Council Chairman, Arit Tunde-Imoyo, made the call during its 71st anniversary celebration and Independence Ball in Lagos.
Tunde-Imoyo stressed the need for the effective implementation of policies designed to improve employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, recalling a policy that requires organisations to reserve five per cent of their workforce for persons with disabilities.
“We would like policies to be put in place and implemented,” he said. “So we’re looking forward to it being implemented,” Tunde-Imoyo said.
She added that the Society envisions a Nigeria where visually impaired persons can move around safely and enjoy greater independence, supported by accessible infrastructure and a more informed public.
“We’re looking forward to an enabling environment where the visually impaired can walk without stumbling over potholes. They can cross the road where people would know that when they see a white cane, you know, this is a visually impaired person. Where people would be educated enough to know that. So advocacy continues, enlightenment continues,” Tunde-Imoyo added.
For 71 years, the Federal Nigerian Society for the Blind (FNSB) has championed advocacy and empowerment for visually impaired persons.
The Society’s 71st anniversary celebration and Independence Ball, held at the MUSON Centre in Onikan, Lagos, on Friday, brought together members, partners and trainees to celebrate its enduring commitment to inclusion and empowerment over the years.
The celebration also showcased the talents and abilities of visually impaired persons, with blind and visually impaired musicians, the compere, and a DJ entertaining guests. Visually impaired models also took to the runway, showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity.
Tunde-Imoyo also highlighted the Society’s achievements and impact since its establishment in 1955.
“The Nigerian Society for the Blind was founded 71 years ago. A year later, they set up the Vocational Training Centre for the Blind in Oshodi. That is where we rehabilitate and retrain people who have gone blind,” Tunde-Imoyo said.
Credit: channelstv.com
