Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Farouq, says the government is set to produce advanced white canes with alarms and sensors to help people with vision disabilities live independently.
Minister announced during a press briefing to celebrate the 2020 White Cane Safety Awareness Day on Thursday in Abuja. The theme for this year’s celebration is: “Promoting Independence and Productivity.”
“Over a billion people live with one form of disability worldwide, decries their high prevalence in Nigeria where it is estimated that up to 5 million Nigerians with with disabilities,” said Farouq.
“Though there is no accurate data on the number of persons in Nigeria with vision disabilities.”
“Globally, this day is being recognised to raise public awareness and sensitisation on the importance of the White Cane and the plight of millions of blind people worldwide”.
“One of our local producers is at the forefront of bringing technological modifications to the conventional White Canes, making it more of a utility tool for people who are blind or have low vision.”
“Thus, we look forward to modern White Canes with sensors and alarms as well as other features that will help blind people live more independently,” Farouq said.
