A fresh push for greater inclusion has emerged in Nigeria’s tech sector as Mr. Timothy Akano, Chief Executive Officer of New Horizons Nigeria, urged stakeholders to intentionally create space for visually impaired individuals in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Outreach to Visually Impaired Students in Oshodi
Akano made the appeal during a special outreach visit to the Federal School for the Blind in Oshodi, Lagos, held on Friday as part of celebrations marking his birthday.
The visit focused on encouraging students and highlighting the importance of digital empowerment for persons with visual impairments.
Unlocking Untapped Potential Through Skills
According to Akano, visually impaired persons possess significant untapped potential that could contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s growing digital landscape.
He stressed that with access to the right training, tools, and guidance, they can compete effectively in fields such as data analysis, software development, and artificial intelligence.
The Role of Training, Tools, and Mentorship
Akano emphasized that access to ICT resources is critical for inclusion.
He noted that providing visually impaired individuals with computers, internet connectivity, and structured training, alongside mentorship, can bridge the gap and prepare them for meaningful participation in the tech industry.
Inclusion Policies Need Stronger Implementation
While acknowledging that policies promoting inclusion already exist, Akano pointed out that implementation remains a major challenge.
He called for stronger commitment from stakeholders to ensure these policies translate into real opportunities for people with disabilities.
Driving Employment Through Inclusive Practices
He also urged organizations across sectors to adopt inclusive hiring practices.
According to him, creating employment opportunities for physically challenged individuals would help reduce unemployment and promote a more balanced workforce.
Impact of New Horizons Nigeria’s Initiative
New Horizons Nigeria, an ICT training and certification institute with over two decades of experience, has been actively supporting digital education in Nigeria.
The organization provides both online and instructor-led training and partners with schools and institutions to expand access to ICT knowledge.
Through its ongoing engagement with the Federal School for the Blind—an initiative Akano said began three years ago—the organization has provided essential tools such as computers and internet access while also delivering tailored training programs.
A Story of Ripple Effect and Transformation
Akano shared a success story of a student who, after receiving ICT training, is now teaching others within the same school.
He described this as proof of the multiplier effect, where empowering one individual leads to broader community impact.
Changing Perceptions of Disability
He challenged society to move away from viewing physically challenged individuals as limited, urging a shift toward recognizing their abilities and contributions.
According to him, the absence of an enabling environment—not lack of talent—is often the real barrier to success.
Stakeholders Advocate for Continued Investment
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that stakeholders present at the event echoed the need for sustained investment in inclusive education and digital access for vulnerable groups to ensure long-term impact.
Impact and Consequences
The push for inclusion in ICT could significantly improve job opportunities for visually impaired individuals, helping reduce unemployment and social exclusion.
It also has the potential to strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy by tapping into a wider pool of talent.
If properly implemented, such initiatives can foster innovation, promote equality, and create a more diverse and competitive tech workforce.
What’s next?
Going forward, the focus will likely be on translating inclusion policies into action through stronger partnerships between government, private sector organizations, and training institutions.
Expanding access to ICT infrastructure, scaling training programs, and encouraging inclusive hiring practices will be key steps in ensuring sustained progress.
Summary
Timothy Akano has renewed calls for greater inclusion of visually impaired individuals in Nigeria’s ICT sector, emphasizing the need for access to training, tools, and opportunities.
Through initiatives like those at the Federal School for the Blind, he demonstrates how targeted support can transform lives and communities while urging stakeholders to move from policy to practical implementation.
Bulleted Takeaways
- Timothy Akano advocates for stronger inclusion of visually impaired persons in ICT
- Visually impaired individuals have untapped potential in areas like AI, software development, and data analysis
- Access to ICT tools, training, and mentorship is essential for empowerment
- Inclusion policies exist but require better implementation
- Organizations are encouraged to adopt inclusive hiring practices
- New Horizons Nigeria has supported ICT training at the Federal School for the Blind for years
- A trained student is now teaching others, showing a ripple effect of empowerment
- Stakeholders emphasize sustained investment in inclusive education and digital access
- Greater inclusion could reduce unemployment and boost Nigeria’s digital economy
