The Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities (OYSAPD) has sponsored the 2026 International White Cane Day celebration, using the occasion to spotlight the importance of safe mobility, accessible public spaces and equal opportunities for persons with visual impairment.
The event brought together persons with visual impairment, representatives of government ministries, disability-focused organisations, partners and other stakeholders to promote public awareness of the challenges faced by people who are blind or have low vision and the practical steps needed to address them.
In his welcome address, the Director-General of OYSAPD, Barrister Ayodele Adekanmbi, described White Cane Safety Day as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and independence of persons with visual impairment while renewing collective responsibility for protecting their rights and dignity.
Observed annually on 15 October, White Cane Safety Day has been celebrated since 1964. The occasion recognises the white cane as an essential mobility aid and a powerful symbol of independence, confidence, resilience and capability.
Barrister Adekanmbi explained that the white cane enables users to identify obstacles, navigate their surroundings more safely and carry out daily activities with greater independence. For many, it represents the freedom to pursue education, employment, social relationships and other meaningful opportunities.
However, he stressed that the significance of the celebration extends beyond the white cane itself. Persons with visual impairment continue to encounter obstacles, including unsafe roads and walkways, inaccessible public facilities, inadequate access to information, limited employment opportunities and negative societal attitudes.
The Agency’s sponsorship of the event reflects its commitment to raising awareness of these challenges and encouraging practical responses from government institutions, communities and the general public.
A Call for Public Action
Barrister Adekanmbi urged members of the public to show greater consideration for white cane users and recognise their right to move safely and independently. He called for a society in which persons with visual impairment can access essential services, exercise their rights and participate fully in everyday life without discrimination.
The message is clear: creating safer communities requires action from everyone.
Motorists should exercise caution when approaching pedestrians using white canes, give them adequate space and avoid obstructing pedestrian crossings. Traders, motorists and other members of the public should keep walkways clear of parked vehicles, merchandise and other obstacles that could endanger people navigating with mobility aids.
Government agencies, urban planners and road authorities must also prioritise accessible pedestrian routes, safe crossings, appropriate public infrastructure and reliable access to information. Employers, schools and service providers should review their practices to ensure that visual impairment does not unnecessarily prevent people from accessing opportunities or essential services.
Members of the public can contribute by offering assistance respectfully when needed, asking before intervening and treating persons with visual impairment with dignity rather than pity.
As the sponsoring agency, OYSAPD reaffirmed the importance of sustained awareness and coordinated efforts to remove barriers that restrict mobility, independence and participation. The celebration provided an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on their responsibilities and support practical measures that improve everyday experiences for persons with visual impairment.
The Director-General concluded his address by urging participants to renew their commitment to a society where persons with visual impairment can move freely, access essential services and participate fully in community life.
The 2026 International White Cane Day celebration serves as a reminder that awareness must translate into action. Every clear walkway, safer road crossing, accessible public facility and respectful interaction can make a meaningful difference. OYSAPD calls on residents, institutions and public authorities across Oyo State to take practical steps towards ensuring that persons with visual impairment can live, work and move around with greater safety, confidence and independence.
