Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has issued a powerful call for stronger action to ensure digital accessibility for blind and visually impaired citizens. Her message, delivered to mark World Braille Day 2026 on January 4, positioned Braille as a critical tool for inclusion, dignity, and independence in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
A Call to Center Accessibility in Digital Transformation
The First Lady warned that as Nigeria and the world accelerate towards digital transformation, leaving accessibility out of the equation risks deepening existing social inequalities. She stressed that technological advancement must be paired with deliberate inclusion to benefit all citizens.
"Braille, when integrated with technology, guarantees equal access to information, education, and opportunities," Senator Tinubu stated. She emphasized that this integration is non-negotiable for guaranteeing the full participation of visually impaired persons in education, the job market, and civic life.
Reaffirming Commitments on a Global Stage
Tinubu noted that the annual commemoration of World Braille Day serves as a vital opportunity to reaffirm both national and global commitments to equal rights and opportunities. She described Braille as more than just a tactile writing system, but a cornerstone of human rights for millions.
The First Lady reaffirmed her personal commitment to advocacy for persons with disabilities. She extended a call to action to all sectors of society, urging stakeholders in government, the private sector, and civil society to prioritize accessible and inclusive design in both physical infrastructure and digital platforms.
Building an Inclusive Nigeria
Looking forward, Senator Tinubu underscored the importance of Nigeria continuing to build inclusive environments that enable every citizen to lead a full and independent life. This requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Strengthening policies that mandate and support accessibility.
- Reinforcing institutional frameworks to implement these policies effectively.
- Fostering strategic partnerships across society to empower every Nigerian.
The ultimate goal, she highlighted, is to empower all Nigerians, regardless of ability, to participate confidently in the nation's development and building processes. Her message aligns with the core purpose of World Braille Day, which is to raise awareness about Braille as an essential means of communication and a fundamental human right for blind and visually impaired people globally.
