Persons with Albinism have advocated the reinstatement of free skin cancer treatments to tackle deaths associated with skin cancer.

Mr Jake Epelle of the Albino Foundation and Convener Disability Inclusion of Nigeria made the call at the National Albinism Awareness Day held in Abuja.

According to the Convener, the cost of skin cancer treatment is too high for an individual to afford, hence the need for government and other stakeholders to provide the necessary supports to address the plights of albinism.

“Let me say here categorically that I don’t think any of the hospitals in Nigeria apart from the Teaching hospitals can actually administer medical remedy for skin cancer treatments, so the only opportunity that we have to get help is through the government platforms and establishments “
   
Mr Epelle explained that though the Federal Government has initiated Cancer intervention fund but skin cancer treatment was not captured in the fund.

 Mr Epelle said the Association was working with the National Population Commission to ascertain accurate data of Persons with Albinism.

The commemoration of the National albinism day on the 5th of May was born after the policy on albinism was signed by the former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.