Nigeria Association of the Blind hosts transformative three-day conference

The Lagos State chapter of the Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB) concluded a remarkable three-day conference at Faith Plaza, Bariga, from December 4th to 6th, 2024. The event was a powerful testament to resilience, empowerment, and community solidarity, showcasing the association’s commitment to supporting visually impaired individuals through education, economic opportunities, and strategic leadership.

Day One: Elevation Expo – Nurturing Entrepreneurial Spirit
The conference commenced with the Elevation Expo, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support visually impaired youth during these challenging economic times. The highlight of the day was a dynamic business pitch competition that provided a platform for young Visually Impaired entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative ideas and business acumen.

Three outstanding participants were recognized for their exceptional pitches, receiving substantial cash prizes: N100,000 for first place, N75,000 for second place, and N50,000 for third place. Beyond monetary rewards, the event celebrated the diverse talents of visually impaired youth, offering them critical financial support and recognition.

Day Two: Workshops, Empowerment, and Comprehensive Assembly
The second day was a multifaceted program combining strategic workshops, empowerment initiatives, and the association’s general assembly. The morning session featured a carefully curated agenda that brought together key stakeholders and thought leaders.

Notable speakers addressed critical topics ranging from the importance of insurance to domestic violence’s impact on children’s mental health to the importance of quality education for blind children.

A significant moment came with the empowerment of five women entrepreneurs, each receiving a N100,000 grant to support their business ventures. The business pitch competition winners from the previous day were also formally recognized, symbolizing the association’s commitment to economic independence.

The day concluded with a comprehensive general assembly, functioning as the organization’s quadrennial review. Representatives from various units—Senatorial Zones, Women’s Wing, Youth Wing, and the general state executive committee—presented detailed reports of their four-year stewardship, including a transparent financial report.

Day Three: Democratic Renewal and Future Vision
The final day of the conference centred on democratic processes, with the organization conducting its general elections. Despite minor disagreements, the election proceeded smoothly, reflecting the association’s commitment to transparent governance.

Eligible voters, verified through their Payment of association dues and photo identification, participated in an open voting process where candidates were nominated and selected by a show of hands.

The election concluded with the selection of Engineer Taiwo Amao as the new chairman. In an exclusive interview with The Guardian, Amao—a mechanical engineer who became visually impaired—articulated a compelling vision. “I want to make the NAB Lagos a force to be reckoned with,” he stated, emphasizing a approach that transforms beneficiaries into enablers.

Acknowledgements and Support
The event’s success was made possible through the generous support of multiple organizations. Committee Chairman Mr. Tunde Muhammed expressed gratitude to key sponsors including Sterling Bank, First City Monument Bank, Zenith Bank, Lagos State Office of Disability Affairs, Nigeria Police Micro Finance Bank, and Our Saviours Church.

The conference underscored a powerful narrative of empowerment, resilience, and community-driven transformation, demonstrating that visual impairment is not a limitation but an opportunity for extraordinary achievement.