People living with leprosy in Abuja have called for urgent action to end social exclusion and discrimination.

They made the call on Sunday in Abuja as Nigeria joins the global community today to mark the 2024 World Leprosy Day.

Musa Kabiru said the disease had made him a “social outcast.”

Mr Kabiru stated, “I no longer recognise myself, and neither does my wife. I suffer from what doctors call nerve damage, resulting in impairment, deformity, and disability. I have long battled hunger and discrimination. With no gainful employment or support from anyone or the government, I am now forced to beg for money. 

“When I am sick, no one wants to touch me to know how I am feeling.”

Mairo Shehu expressed concern that governments and relevant agencies need to actively raise awareness and challenge negative perceptions surrounding leprosy to combat social exclusion.

”There is a pattern where organisations show support around World Leprosy Day, but after the celebration, the support stops. We need continuous efforts, such as community outreach programs and dispelling myths about leprosy, to encourage acceptance and integration of affected individuals into mainstream society,” said Ms Shehu.

She said these efforts would encourage acceptance and integration of individuals affected by leprosy into mainstream society.

Doris Maigari underscored the government’s need to ensure equal access to healthcare and education for people with leprosy.

According to Ms Maigari, special clinics should be established, equipped with trained medical professionals providing free treatment and rehabilitation services.

“These clinics should offer counselling and psychological support to help us cope with the emotional challenges we may face,” Ms Maigari stressed.

Furthermore, she urged the government to initiate vocational training programmes to empower the community with skills leading to sustainable employment opportunities.

“By equipping us with the necessary tools and knowledge, the government will break the cycle of social exclusion and provide a path towards self-sufficiency for us,” she added.

For Matthew Okafor, despite the government’s claims regarding support for individuals living with leprosy, challenges persist in the battle against social exclusion for people with the disease.

“Stigma and discrimination persist, hindering their full integration into society,” said Mr Okafor. 

He added, “It is crucial for the government, civil society organizations, and the general public to continue their collaborative efforts to eradicate these prejudices and ensure equal rights for all individuals, regardless of their health conditions.”

However, he emphasised the need for sustained efforts to completely eradicate the social barriers faced by this marginalised community and foster a truly inclusive society.

(NAN)