The Albinism Association of Nigeria has appealed to the Federal Government to integrate free skin cancer treatment and regular dermatological check-ups into its healthcare programs.
The association’s National President, Dr. Bisi Bamishe, made the appeal in a statement to commemorate World Cancer Day 2025, lamenting the tragic loss of three members to skin cancer within a short period.
Bamishe noted that persons with albinism in Nigeria face significant health challenges, including extreme vulnerability to skin cancer due to the lack of melanin in their skin.
“We are calling on the Federal Ministry of Health to include skin cancer treatment in the National Health Insurance Scheme, ensuring that persons with albinism have access to affordable healthcare,” Bamishe said.
The association is also seeking legislative support and policy implementation to address the specific health challenges of persons with albinism.
Bamishe commended the Lagos State Government for its support to the albinism community, noting that the state government had spent over N20 million on skin cancer patients in the last two years, in addition to providing sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas.
The association’s call to action coincided with World Cancer Day 2025, observed globally on February 4, 2025, under the theme “United by Unique.”
With the lives of persons with albinism hanging in the balance, the association is hopeful that the federal government will heed its demands and take immediate action to address the skin cancer crisis facing its members.
