The Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind (FNSB) has reached a significant milestone, celebrating seven decades of dedicated service to visually impaired Nigerians through comprehensive education, vocational training, and advocacy programs.
Seven Decades of Transforming Lives
During the organization's 70th Anniversary Gala and Fundraising Dinner in Lagos, Chairman of the Executive Council, Mrs. Arit Tunde-Imoyo, highlighted the Society's remarkable journey under the theme "Vision Without Eyes - Striving for Excellence." She emphasized that the Society has consistently worked to transform blindness into narratives of courage, skill, and remarkable achievement.
"We are celebrating seven decades of transforming blindness into a journey of purpose and resilience," Tunde-Imoyo declared. "True vision extends beyond physical sight—it encompasses perseverance and the ability to convert limitations into opportunities."
Vocational Training Center's Impact
The Chairman revealed impressive statistics about the Society's Vocational Training Centre (VTC) located in Oshodi, which has successfully empowered over 5,000 blind men and women with essential education and practical skills. This comprehensive training approach has fostered independence and self-reliance among beneficiaries, enabling them to lead productive lives.
Tunde-Imoyo also highlighted the Society's Eye Bank for Sight Restoration, which continues to provide hope to individuals whose blindness conditions are treatable. This initiative symbolizes FNSB's dual mission of rehabilitation for permanent visual impairment and restoration for those with curable conditions.
Honoring Founding Visionaries
The event served as a platform to pay tribute to the organization's founding members and long-serving leaders whose dedication established the foundation for the Society's enduring success. Special recognition was given to:
- Life President Dr. E.O. Akinsete
- Mrs. Ebun Onabanjo
- Olu Falomo
- Dame Abimbola Fashola
- Mrs. Abiola Agbaje
These individuals were commended for their tireless commitment to advancing the cause of visually impaired Nigerians over many years.
Call for Continued Support
Tunde-Imoyo made an impassioned appeal for increased support, stating: "The future of this vision depends on all of us. We require more volunteers, professionals, and partners to maintain this vital work. Every contribution represents an investment in human potential—a powerful statement that blindness should never signify the end of opportunity."
Reinforcing this message, Executive Secretary Mr. Oluwamayowa Oke described the anniversary as both a milestone of gratitude and renewal. "This celebration isn't merely about reflecting on seventy years of impact. It's about honoring those who made it possible—our past chairmen, council members, dedicated staff, and partners. Collectively, we can ensure blindness never becomes a barrier to living a complete and dignified life."
The gala evening featured long-service and recognition awards honoring staff, council members, and corporate partners whose unwavering dedication has sustained the Society's humanitarian mission across decades. The event successfully blended celebration of past achievements with a rallying call for future support, powerfully demonstrating that true sight resides not in the eyes, but within human spirit and determination.
