Own Your Cane”: Foundation Distributes 10,000 White Canes to Blind Nigerians for Independent Living
By Hussaina Yakubu
January 30, 2025
The Disability Resource Foundation of Nigeria has launched the “Own Your Cane” initiative, a groundbreaking effort to distribute 10,000 white canes to blind and visually impaired individuals across Nigeria.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Kaduna on Wednesday, Salisu Ibrahim, Executive Director of the Foundation, said the initiative, which began in 2021, aims to promote independent movement and social integration for visually impaired persons.
“We are flagging off the distribution today with 200 beneficiaries in Kaduna, after which we will move to Kano next month to distribute 300 more white canes,” he stated.
Kaduna State, as the host, will receive 500 canes in total, while the remaining 9,500 canes will be distributed across the 35 states and the FCT.
According to Ibrahim, the foundation is also developing an orientation training manual and plans to train 500 mobility teachers nationwide.
“The aim is to promote mobility safety, independent living, and public awareness about the significance of the white cane,” he added.
He noted that one of the major challenges is that some people feel shy or lack the knowledge to use the white cane properly.
“This is why we are training mobility teachers to educate and encourage its use without shame,” he explained.
The initiative has received commendation from stakeholders, including Hajiya Rakiya Umar, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Disability Board, who described it as the first of its kind in Nigeria.
She assured the foundation of the state government’s support and announced a ₦20,000 donation to further the cause.
A visually impaired 10-year-old recipient, Muhammad Sadam, expressed joy at receiving his white cane, saying he previously had to use an ordinary stick to move around.
“I lost my sight due to meningitis, but with this cane, I can now walk more confidently,” he said.
Other dignitaries at the event, including the District Head of Tudun Wada, Alhaji Bello Abubakar, and Kaduna Special Education School Principal, Musa Saidu, emphasized the importance of mobility training and urged beneficiaries to make proper use of the canes.
The “Own Your Cane” project, driven by a collective effort, is set to revolutionize mobility support for the visually impaired in Nigeria, fostering independence and social inclusion.(NAN)