Laughter, music, and dancing filled the Aper Aku Stadium on Children’s Day 2026 as the Kids & Teens Resource Centre, alongside more than a dozen partner organisations, hosted a historic celebration for children living with albinism in Benue State.
More than 25 children with albinism, accompanied by their parents, caregivers, adult advocates, and representatives of various NGOs and support groups, gathered for a day dedicated not only to fun, but also to visibility, inclusion, and love. The event transformed the stadium into a vibrant carnival featuring games, singing, dance competitions, and other recreational activities. Refreshments flowed freely, creating what attendees described as “a truly joyful and friendly atmosphere.”
“This is more than a party. It is a statement that our children matter,” said Jacinta Igwilo, Chairperson of the Benue State Association of Persons with Albinism. “For too long, children with albinism have faced stigma and isolation. Today has shown them that they belong. This is the first time these children are being celebrated on this scale.”
The celebration received widespread praise from participants and guests alike, many describing it as a rare public recognition of children who are often overlooked at social events. Beyond the fun, organisers emphasised the event’s deeper mission of promoting awareness, challenging myths about albinism, and building a support network for affected families across Benue State.
According to Dr. Aondoaseer Leo-Angelo Viashima, Director General of BICD, “Inclusion means ensuring that every child is seen, valued, and celebrated. Today’s Children’s Day celebration for children living with albinism is a strong reminder that love, dignity, and opportunity must reach every child without exception.”
Earlier in the day, the event received a significant boost when Mr. Theophilus Sambe, a radio presenter with the private station Brothers FM 90.5, promoted the celebration on air. In an interview with Martin-Mary, Sambe discussed the importance of celebrating all children, especially those living with disabilities. He also spoke passionately about positive parenting, urging parents to “desist from punishing their children and wards, but rather discipline them with love.”
The success of the event was driven by a broad coalition of partners, including His Marvellous Grace Support Foundation (HMGSF) UK, Global Center for Humanitarian & Social Development (GCHSD), Spring of Hope for the Girl Child Development Initiative (SHOGDI), Discovery, Development & Impact Guide Initiative (DDIGI), Dooshai Save Benue Youth Foundation, Association of Women Living with HIV in Nigeria (ASHWAN) Benue, Onah Adeyi International Disability Centre (OAIDC), Association of Positive Youths in Nigeria (APYIN), and Pick-Up Initiative.
As Nigeria marked Children’s Day 2026, Makurdi’s celebration stood out as a model of inclusive community action, proving that when organisations unite, every child can shine.