Former Journalist Turns To Farming After Selling Multi-Million-Naira Printing Machine Due To Vision Loss

Former Journalist Turns To Farming After Selling Multi-Million-Naira Printing Machine Due To Vision LossKolapo Abiodun, a former journalist turned public relations manager and entrepreneur, shares his remarkable journey of resilience after losing his sight due to glaucoma in an interview with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI. He discusses how this life-altering experience fueled his passion for assistive technology and ignited an unwavering determination to thrive against all odds.

Your Background as a Journalist and Printer

Abiodun graduated with a degree in English Language from Ogun State University, now known as Olabisi Onabanjo University, in 1990. He began his journalism career at a health-focused media outlet, where he interpreted complex medical information for the general public. His emphasis on feature writing distinguished him from conventional journalists, preparing him for future challenges.

Before his vision loss, he actively engaged in various leadership roles, serving as president of his residents’ association and chairing the Alimosho branch of professional printers. He was also vice-chairman of his secondary school alumni association and held a principal officer position in his university alumni chapter in Lagos. Alongside these roles, he operated a successful printing press that covered the entire value chain of the profession.

However, in an instant, his vibrant life took a turn toward pain and isolation, mirroring the biblical proverb about sudden downfall. This experience taught him that life can change dramatically at any moment. During a crisis that left the industry in turmoil and salaries nonexistent, Abiodun ventured into private business. After several years, he returned to communications as a corporate affairs manager and eventually became a public relations manager at an oil and gas company. Later, he fulfilled his long-held dream by establishing his own printing company, known for book publishing.

Life Before Visual Impairment

Before losing his sight, Abiodun’s printing business was thriving, handling notable clients and producing bestselling books. However, in February 2020, he encountered a significant challenge. After being diagnosed with glaucoma, he managed his condition well without glasses and consistently took his medications.

Despite the diagnosis, Abiodun was able to drive until a trip to Ilorin with his wife revealed a troubling symptom. Upon waking up, he noticed his left eye was red. After visiting an optician, he was referred to a tertiary hospital in Lagos. Unfortunately, the experience exposed him to the harsh realities of Nigeria’s healthcare system. After three months of daily visits, he only managed to see the consultant twice. A procedure on his left eye did not come with the necessary follow-up medications, leading to the loss of vision in that eye.

Reflecting on his experience, he regretted not seeking alternative healthcare sooner. He recalled a previous injury to his left eye when a traffic officer struck him with a horsewhip, which likely contributed to his vision loss. As he continued to manage his glaucoma, the COVID-19 lockdown severely restricted access to eye clinics, exacerbating his condition. After losing vision in his left eye completely, he began to experience complications in his right eye.

Upon the lockdown’s end, he reached out to his consultant, who advised him to undergo surgeries to regain his sight. Despite several surgeries and implants, he faced disappointment as his vision did not improve. This period plunged him into depression, leaving him feeling as though his world was collapsing.

Challenges After Losing Sight

Abiodun’s business ultimately collapsed due to the actions of those he trusted to manage it. He was forced to sell his equipment for scrap, which he had initially purchased for millions of naira. While some friends remained supportive, many returned to their routines after the lockdown, leaving him to navigate his new reality alone.

His wife, a pillar of support, struggled to balance work with caring for him. A compassionate Igbo neighbor even offered to take him to the hospital, showcasing the support he received from the Igbo community during this challenging time. Feeling abandoned by many in his own community, he faced a choice: to live or succumb to despair. Choosing life, he turned to farming as a coping mechanism.

Adapting to a New Reality

Abiodun’s turning point came when a client, Dr. Akin John, reached out and suggested he write Christian books, leveraging his experience in editing. Despite initial reservations about his biblical knowledge, he embraced the opportunity. He also mastered assistive technology like TalkBack, which allowed him to navigate digital platforms and continue engaging with others. Most people around him remained unaware of his visual impairment due to his active participation.

However, tragedy struck again when Dr. John passed away before their lessons could progress. Nonetheless, this suggestion set Abiodun on a new path, prompting him to explore writing as a visually impaired person and to adapt to using assistive technology.

With the guidance of an instructor who was also blind, Abiodun learned essential skills, including mobility and navigating the computer through keystrokes. This process was challenging, taking over six months of dedicated practice.

A New Perspective on Life

Currently, Abiodun is writing a book on loneliness, drawing from his own experiences. He recognizes that loneliness extends beyond physical isolation; it’s about feeling disconnected from society. While he has encountered kindness from Nigerians willing to assist him, he also grappled with the reality that many often fail to see the value in individuals with disabilities.

He reflects on a poignant truth shared by someone who had been visually impaired since childhood: “When you lose your sight, people no longer see value in you.” This realization spurred him to strive for utility and relevance in society. Abiodun believes that adversity shapes us, and how we respond to challenges is crucial.

Advice for Others Facing Life-Altering Challenges

In conclusion, Kolapo Abiodun’s story exemplifies resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, highlighting the importance of adaptability and the pursuit of purpose, even in the darkest times.

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