The Nigerian Association of the Blind (NAB), Anambra State Chapter, has called on members of the public to show greater understanding, patience and support for visually impaired persons to promote their safety, independence and inclusion in society.
The call was made as the association joined the global community to commemorate the 2026 White Cane Day, observed annually on October 15 to recognise the rights, dignity, independence and achievements of persons who are blind or visually impaired.
Speaking during the celebration, the Anambra State Chairman of the association, Comrade Ernest Okanmelu, urged the public to exercise patience and offer assistance to visually impaired persons whenever they require help navigating their surroundings.
Okanmelu expressed appreciation to the Transport Company of Anambra State (TRACAS), Star Sunny Motors, the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), St. Matthew’s Catholic Church and other supporters who provided facilities free of charge to ensure a memorable celebration.
In his keynote lecture, the Vice President of the Joint Association of Persons Living with Disabilities, Anambra State Chapter, Comrade Ifeanyi Igwegbe, spoke on the origin, significance and benefits of the white cane as an essential mobility aid for visually impaired persons.
He explained that the theme of the celebration, “Be My Identity,” was a call on members of the public to extend a helping hand to visually impaired persons whenever they encounter them and assistance is needed.
Igwegbe emphasised the importance of public awareness and understanding in ensuring that persons with visual impairments can move around safely and participate fully in society.
Representing the Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Chinyere Onyekesi, Ms. Patricia Ibekwe commended the association for its resilience, unity and sustained efforts to support its members despite the challenges associated with visual impairment.
She encouraged members of the public to make positive contributions to the lives of persons with disabilities whenever they encounter them, stressing the importance of compassion, inclusion and collective responsibility.
The event also featured displays of various talents by members of the association, showcasing their abilities and achievements.
As part of activities marking the celebration, the Anambra State chapter conducted a sensitisation exercise around Amawbia and its environs to educate residents on their responsibilities towards visually impaired persons, particularly the need to offer appropriate assistance to individuals using white canes.
White Cane Day highlights the importance of the white cane as a mobility tool that enables people with visual impairments to navigate their environments more safely and independently. The annual observance also seeks to raise awareness of the barriers they face and encourage governments, organisations and the public to promote accessibility, equal opportunities and social inclusion.
