Abia State Government, through the Office of the Wife of the Governor, has extended critical support to persons living with albinism in the state, as part of its broader and sustained commitment to the welfare of vulnerable groups.
In a statement by the press officer to the governor’s wife, Mr Justice Ndubueze, the government stated that 100 members of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Abia State chapter, received bags of rice and a cash donation of N50,000 each to support their livelihood and wellbeing.
According to Ndubueze, the outreach held at the country home of the wife of the governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, was further expanded to include 300 persons living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and AIDS, as well as “sickle cell warriors” in the state, who also received bags of rice and N50,000 each as part of the humanitarian support.
Mrs. Otti said the intervention was driven by compassion and a firm belief that governance must be humane, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of the most vulnerable.
She emphasized that while persons living with albinism face unique challenges, including skin-related health risks, other vulnerable groups such as people living with HIV/AIDS and “sickle cell warriors” also deserve attention, care, and dignity.
She said, “Beyond food and financial assistance, we consistently provide persons living with albinism with essential protective materials to safeguard their skin and improve their quality of life; such support will.
“We also want reassured people living with HIV/AIDS and sickle cell warriors that they are not alone, we encourage you to remain hopeful, disciplined with your treatment because the Abia State Government stands firmly with you.
“The administration of Governor Alex Otti, is intentional about combining infrastructural development with strong social protection policies, ensuring that progress in Abia State does not exclude the vulnerable”.
According to the statement the Director-General of the Abia State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ABSACA), Dr. Uloaku Emma, expressed appreciation for the unwavering support of Governor Otti to the agency, describing his leadership as people-centered and health-driven.
Also Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Maureen Aghukwa, jointly commended the courage, resilience, and strength of persons living with albinism, HIV/AIDS, and sickle cell disorder.
The Coordinator of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Abia State, Mrs. Rebecca Eze, the Chairman of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, Abia State chapter, Mr. Enyinnaya Nwosu, and Miss Victoria, from the Sickle Cell Warriors, all expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Otti for the intervention. They described the support as timely, impactful, and a clear demonstration of government empathy toward vulnerable populations.
