The Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind has commended First City Monument Bank for supporting the visually impaired community in Nigeria.

According to a statement on Tuesday, FCMB, through financial donations and essential supplies, has strengthened programmes at FNSB, Pacelli School for the Blind, Bethesda Home for the Blind, and Farmcraft Centre for the Blind, making a tangible difference in the lives of those it serves.

Chairman of the FNSB Executive Council, Arit Tunde-Imoyo, expressed gratitude for FCMB’s sustained partnership.

“FCMB has been more than a supporter; it has been a true partner. Its generosity has helped sustain our mission of empowering visually impaired individuals to lead independent lives,” she said.

Executive Secretary of the FNSB Vocational Training Centre, Oluwamayowa Oke, also acknowledged FCMB’s consistency in supporting the centre and its students, saying, “FCMB’s generosity ensures the welfare of our students and enhances teaching and learning.”

Reiterating FCMB’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, the Divisional Head of Corporate Affairs, Diran Olojo, said, “Everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of ability. Our increased support this year reflects our dedication to empowering the visually impaired community,” he stated.

Olojo also emphasised the need to challenge societal stereotypes about disabilities.

“The visually impaired are just as capable of success as anyone else. The real barriers are not their limitations but the misconceptions and lack of support they face. At FCMB, we are committed to breaking these barriers by providing resources that enable them to pursue their ambitions and lead fulfilling lives.”

Beyond donations, FCMB has since 2009, through the Priceless Gift of Sight initiative, in partnership with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, provided free eye care services to over 400,000 Nigerians. These services include eye tests, optical treatments, surgeries, and disease management—critical interventions in a country where over four million people are blind or visually impaired.