Nigerian Society For The Blind Demands Inclusive Policies For Visually Impaired Persons

The Federal Nigerian Society for the Blind (FNSB) has called for the creation and execution of policies that will guarantee equal opportunities and promote inclusion for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. This demand was made by Arit Tunde-Imoyo, the Executive Council Chairman of the Society, during its 71st anniversary celebration and Independence Ball in Lagos.

He emphasized the necessity of implementing policies designed to improve employment prospects for individuals with disabilities, recalling a policy requiring organizations to reserve five percent of their workforce for persons with disabilities. Tunde-Imoyo expressed optimism about a future where visually impaired individuals could navigate the country safely and enjoy greater independence, bolstered by accessible infrastructure and a more informed public.

He stressed that advocacy and enlightenment must continue to promote this vision. The FNSB has been dedicated to advocating for and empowering visually impaired individuals for 71 years. The Society's 71st anniversary celebration, held at the MUSON Centre in Onikan, Lagos, featured members, partners, and trainees, and showcased the talents of blind and visually impaired musicians, a compere, and a DJ.

Additionally, visually impaired models took to the runway, displaying Nigeria's cultural diversity. Tunde-Imoyo also highlighted the Society's achievements since its establishment in 1955, including the founding of the Vocational Training Centre for the Blind in Oshodi a year after its inception to rehabilitate and retrain individuals who had gone blind.