Nigeria Association of the Blind, Lagos State Chapter, together with its counterparts in Akure, Bauchi and Abuja, have all joined others all over the world to celebrate the International White Cane and Safety Day in a walk from Ojo Barracks to Lagos State University campus.

The association was established in 1964 by the President of United States of America, Lyndon Johnson while in 2011, President Barack Obama named White Cane and Safety Day Blind Americans Equality Day.

Speaking at the occasion, the Immediate Past Chairman and Chairman, Planning Committee,  International White Cane and Safety Day, 2024, Tunde Mohammed, hinged the significance of the event on the ability to move from one place to another unaided and with confidence.

He said: “It is a day we come together to  meet friends, celebrate our achievements and today we are  taking our walk from Ojo Barracks to Lagos State University Campus where we are going to have a symposium and celebrate our people.”

“The White Cane that was introduced to replace the black, brown and other colours, is a form of reflector such that when it is dark, the cane shines when light beams on it.

“We are calling on the government to give us a sense of belonging by giving our people education, acquisition skills and provide us with necessary infrastructures as we  are no beggars” he said

One of the sponsors of the programme for the past 10 years, the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) that was represented by the Public Relations and Media Manager, Mr. Benjamin Mordi, and other staff, said BSN has been  a long-time friend of the association and have been providing them with Braille Bible. 

“Nothing stops the government from sponsoring this international event by providing the association with everything they need. Corporate organisations should also support them.

“BSN sponsors media coverage  for this event” he said.

Vice Chairman, Nigeria Association of the Blind, Lagos Chapter, Adeola Aina, who said the theme for this year”s celebration is “The White Cane, my symbol of independence and confidence” urged the government to rehabilitate the roads for smooth movement of everyone.  

Other sponsors in addition to BSN included Zenith Bank, First City Monument Bank, Sterling Bank, Lagos State Office of Disability Affairs, St. Saviour’s Church, TBS and Micro Finance Bank, among others.