For many people who are blind or visually impaired, the white cane is more than just a walking aid: it’s a symbol of independence, confidence, and dignity. It represents the ability to move freely, safely, and proudly in a world that still poses many barriers.
According to Sightsavers, about 1 million adults are blind in Nigeria, and another 3 million are visually impaired
This year, Sterling partnered with the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB) to mark the 2025 International White Cane and Safety Day, themed “White Cane, My Identity: Promoting an Inclusive and Safety Culture for the Blind.”
Through our support, we helped empower members of the association with new guide canes, giving more people the tools to navigate their world independently, and to do so with pride.
The two-day event, which was held on October 11 and 15, 2025, brought together members of the blind community, advocates, and supporters. It featured an in-house forum and games day, and later, an awareness walk from Maryland Bus Stop to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Ilupeju, where participants were received for a lively reception.
At the reception, Sterling hosted an account opening exercise, helping participants access financial services and bringing them closer to the bank’s goal of making banking truly inclusive for everyone.
Speaking at the event, representatives of the association emphasized the importance of the white cane as a “symbol of dignity, confidence, and mobility.” They called on government, corporate organizations, and the public to continue advancing inclusion and ensuring that persons with visual impairments can live, work, and thrive without barriers.
Sterling’s involvement in this initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to building an inclusive society: one where everyone, regardless of ability, has access to the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
Because sometimes, empowerment starts with something as simple as a white cane, and the confidence to chase your dreams with it in hand.
