By Sadiya Abdulhamid (NJFP Fellow)
The Bauchi State chapter of the Nigerian Association of the Blind (NAB) has joined millions of visually impaired persons around the world in commemorating this year’s International White Cane Day, celebrated annually on October 15.
Speaking during the event, the Administrative Secretary of the Association, Akibu Ahmad Bababa, said the day serves as a global reminder of the importance of the white cane as a symbol of independence, safety, and dignity for persons with visual impairment.
According to him, this year’s theme, “My White Cane, My Identity,” sends a strong and powerful message that visual impairment does not mean inability, but rather a demonstration of the strength, resilience, and independence of people living with the condition.
“The white cane represents the ability of blind and visually impaired persons to move freely without barriers. It tells the world that though visual impairment may be a disability, it is not a total inability to achieve one’s full potential,” Bababa said.
The administrative secretary, however, expressed concern over the growing challenges facing members of the association, particularly the increasing unemployment rate among visually impaired graduates in Bauchi State.
“Our employment quota is being sold by some unpatriotic individuals to people who are not living with any form of disability. We are calling for the proper implementation of the law and for support from non-governmental organizations, media houses, and other stakeholders to ensure justice for persons with disabilities,” he added.
The International White Cane Day, established by the United Nations, is observed every year on October 15 to raise awareness about the rights and independence of persons with visual impairment and to promote the use of the white cane as a tool for safe and independent mobility.