Olu Samuel
The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), has stressed the importance of inclusivity and accessibility for the visually impaired community.
Speaking at the International White Cane Safety Day 2025 event as a guest Speaker on Monday in Lokoja, Yahaya advocated for a world where visually impaired individuals have genuine opportunities to thrive, seen, heard, and valued every day.
According him, the White Cane day, marked globally every Oct. 15, is significant occasion dedicated to recognising the rights, celebrating the abilities, and honoring the contributions of visually impaired individuals worldwide.
“The white cane is a universal symbol of independence, safety, and resilience for visually impaired individuals, playing a crucial role in enabling autonomous navigation.
“It is also a legal symbol, with White Cane Safety Laws in many regions granting right-of-way to travelers using a white cane, highlighting the need for public safety education and respect for its legal significance.
“In spite technological advancements and increased awareness, visually impaired individuals face systemic obstacles in education, employment, public spaces, and transportation.
“However, inspiring stories of triumph and innovation demonstrate the community’s capabilities and push for equal opportunities,” he said..
Yahaya emphasised the need to move beyond recognition to concrete actions for a more inclusive society.
“Key steps include respecting White Cane Laws, advocating for accessible initiatives in public infrastructure and digital platforms, practicing thoughtful interactions, and raising awareness to end stereotypes.
“The goal is to create a world where visually impaired individuals have genuine opportunities to thrive, are seen, heard, and valued every day.
“White Cane Day 2025 serves as a powerful call to action for full equity and inclusion,” Yahaya said.
The Executive Secretary of Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs (KOSODA) Mall. Nazir Yakubu, reiterated the State’s Government commitments to the welfare of disability community in the state.
Nazir said the white cane is not just a mobility aid but a symbol of independence, confidence, and empowerment to the blinds.
He reiterated Gov. Ahmed Ododo’s commitment to creating an environment that allows them to navigate safely and confidently.
The Chairperson, Nigeria Association of the Blinds, Kogi State chapter, Zainab Sule, stressed that the white cane gives the right-of-way to the visually impaired community using it.
Sule solicited for support from the state, federal governments and organisations to visually impaired community in promoting inclusivity and accessibility towards achieving true equality.
The Kogi Central Association’s Coordinator,, Mall. Abdulazis Asadullah, urged governments at all levels and individuals to ensure the visually impaired community is truly seen, heard, and valued, not just on October 15th, but every single day.
The Programme officer of Sightsavers, Phoebe Hindan, said the event aims to raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion for visually impaired individuals.
The highlight of the event is the distribution of five white canes to visually impaired persons by KOSODA Executive Secretary as well as a road walk by the association.