“I was Denied Job because I’m Woman with Albinism,” Lady Recounts

Summary: Nigerian women with albinism have recounted how they were bullied, discriminated against, and denied job opportunities due to their skin condition. One of them narrated the terrifying threat of ritual attacks, challenges of dating and fetishisation.  

Nigerian women with albinism have recounted how they were bullied, discriminated against, and denied job opportunities due to their skin condition. They revealed this during a recent episode of The Honest Bunch produced by Glitch Africa Studios, on Monday, September 7, 2026. 

Albinism is a genetic condition whereby a person is born with less melanin pigment than usual. Melanin is a chemical in the body that determines the colour of the skin, hair and eyes. In albinism, the affected person often has lighter skin and hair than others. Albinism is considered a disability because it causes significant visual impairments, and exposure to extreme sunlight can cause severe sunburn, a high risk of skin cancer, and painful visual discomfort. Reports estimate that two million Nigerians live with this condition, and most of them face discrimination, including cultural myths.

Speaking during the podcast titled living with albinism: the things nobody talks about, one of the ladies recounted that she was initially unaware of her skin difference, then as a child, but her peers made fun of her until she realised the difference in her skin. She also added that she was denied a job opportunity despite being explicitly told that she was the most qualified candidate for the role. However, the organisation rejected her because of her condition.  

“I have been denied a job opportunity because I’m a woman with albinism. I was the most qualified. In fact, I was told,” she said.

Narrating her experience, the second woman revealed the terrifying threat of ritual attacks,  challenges of dating and fetishisation. According to her, people were curious about her golden hair and whether it could be used for money rituals. 

“I did not want anybody to be aware that I can’t see from afar,” she added.