Inclusivity/Gender
World Cane Safety Day showcases collaboration to tackle Challenges for visually impaired in Edo
Written By: Emmanuel Ikhenebome
16 Oct 2025 07:45 PM
Benin, Edo – As the world commemorated World Cane Safety Day on Wednesday, Mr. Lucky Imafidon, Chairman of the National Association of the Blind (NAB) Edo State chapter, has seized the occasion to spotlight the pressing challenges facing visually impaired persons in the state.
Speaking to Daily South Nigeria during an event organized in partnership with the Great Clarity Eye Care Foundation, Imafidon underscored the dual hurdles of mobility and acceptability, lamenting that “some members of the public believe that people with visual impairments cannot do anything or become relevant in society.”
Imafidon emphasized the white cane’s role as a symbol of independence, not a plea for charity, stating, “When members of the public see persons with the white cane, they should know that they have somewhere they are heading. They should assist them to go wherever they’re going; they are not beggars, they know what they’re doing.”
This clarion call aims to dismantle stereotypes that hinder the community’s integration.
Imafidon, who welcomed the establishment of the Edo state Commission for Persons with Disabilities, said the association will work closely with the Theophilus Egbodion-led body to strengthen advocacy, enhance resource access, and transform public perceptions, offering a hopeful blueprint for a more equitable future for Edo visually impaired community.
He stated that the commission is a cornerstone for progress, expressing optimism that the synergy would yield dividends through improved infrastructure—like accessible pathways—and public awareness campaigns to foster acceptance.
Dr. Ogbebor Uwamarin, leading the Foundation, oversaw free eye screenings that benefited over 55 individuals with check-ups and glasses, reinforcing the day’s focus on practical support.
Meanwhile, the event, held to mark the global observance of October 15, featured a sensitization rally that wound through key locations, starting at Central Motor Park, with stop overs at Oredo Local Government Secretariat, the bustling 3rd Junction, and Government House, before culminating in a celebration.
Educational grants were distributed to pupils from the School for the Visually Impaired, as well as visually impaired secondary students from Idia and Ihogbe Colleges, tertiary institutions, the elderly, and members in Edo North Senatorial District, signaling a commitment to empowerment.
The theme of this year's event is, “Accessible Nigeria, Inclusive Future: The White Cane as a Right, Not a Privilege."
Speaking to Daily South Nigeria during an event organized in partnership with the Great Clarity Eye Care Foundation, Imafidon underscored the dual hurdles of mobility and acceptability, lamenting that “some members of the public believe that people with visual impairments cannot do anything or become relevant in society.”
Imafidon emphasized the white cane’s role as a symbol of independence, not a plea for charity, stating, “When members of the public see persons with the white cane, they should know that they have somewhere they are heading. They should assist them to go wherever they’re going; they are not beggars, they know what they’re doing.”
This clarion call aims to dismantle stereotypes that hinder the community’s integration.
Imafidon, who welcomed the establishment of the Edo state Commission for Persons with Disabilities, said the association will work closely with the Theophilus Egbodion-led body to strengthen advocacy, enhance resource access, and transform public perceptions, offering a hopeful blueprint for a more equitable future for Edo visually impaired community.
He stated that the commission is a cornerstone for progress, expressing optimism that the synergy would yield dividends through improved infrastructure—like accessible pathways—and public awareness campaigns to foster acceptance.
Dr. Ogbebor Uwamarin, leading the Foundation, oversaw free eye screenings that benefited over 55 individuals with check-ups and glasses, reinforcing the day’s focus on practical support.
Meanwhile, the event, held to mark the global observance of October 15, featured a sensitization rally that wound through key locations, starting at Central Motor Park, with stop overs at Oredo Local Government Secretariat, the bustling 3rd Junction, and Government House, before culminating in a celebration.
Educational grants were distributed to pupils from the School for the Visually Impaired, as well as visually impaired secondary students from Idia and Ihogbe Colleges, tertiary institutions, the elderly, and members in Edo North Senatorial District, signaling a commitment to empowerment.
The theme of this year's event is, “Accessible Nigeria, Inclusive Future: The White Cane as a Right, Not a Privilege."
Comments