In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, Tomi Waziri, a blind Nigerian man, has captivated social media users with a video showcasing his adept use of Twitter despite his disability.
The heartwarming footage which was posted on his Twitter profile (@tomi_waziri), highlighting the power of accessibility settings, has garnered widespread admiration and support.
In the video, Tomi showcases his proficiency in using Twitter, leveraging accessibility settings. By utilizing Voiceovers and his prior knowledge of a phone’s layout, he is able to navigate his phone just as well as anybody.
Tomi, a former Uber driver, tragically lost his sight in 2019 at the age of 27 during a traumatic encounter with traffic robbers in Lagos state. As he embarked on a trip from 1004 Estate in Victoria Island to Ajao Estate, two assailants armed with locally made guns approached his vehicle in a traffic jam on the notorious Apongbon bridge. In their attempt to rob him, Tomi was shot in the face with a gun filled with pellets, leaving him blind instantaneously. Despite seeking medical assistance, his condition remained unchanged.
Overcoming despair, depression and suicidal thoughts, Tomi emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and founded the Tomi Waziri Foundation. Rooted in the principles of love and forgiveness, the foundation seeks to spread these messages to individuals facing adversity.
Speaking about his journey, Tomi stated that he doesn’t harbour any ill will towards the robbers: “When I lost my sight, I never wished anything bad on the armed robbers responsible for the loss of my sight. Instead, I organized an outreach to the Juvenile Remand Home for Boys, Oregun.”
Tomi’s inspiring story doesn’t end there. He has moved on with life’s endeavours, as he has hid hands full. His Twitter bio reads, “I survived a gunshot to the face, inspirational speaker, mental health counselor, PWD rights activist , author, Pro Humanist, youtuber”
He is happily married to Anuoluwapo Waziri, who occasionally appears on his YouTube Channel, “Tomi D Illuminator.” With over 3,150 subscribers, Tomi uses his platform to share uplifting content, spreading hope and inspiration to others.
Tomi Waziri’s incredible journey serves as a powerful reminder that resilience and determination can triumph over even the most challenging circumstances. His story has touched the hearts of many and serves as an inspiration to embrace life’s obstacles with unwavering strength.
Here are some reactions from Tomi’s twitter video
@Letter_to_Jack My mind is blown. You’re a great source of inspiration.
@ZobbyJazzy All I can say is, God is the Greatest!!! Cause… Omo!!
@lawlhee I just watched the video. It’s awesome. More grace to you
@Dazzlingprince After watching your pin tweet, I’m speechless
@Danita_Jacobb Humans are the first wonder of the world
@Leriq_Keemz I have watched your videos on how you became visually impaired and all I can say is a big kudos to you for staying positive despite life happening to you. God bless you and continue protecting your family
@StineKing1 “Wow” was the only word I could say after watching your pinned tweet..You’re doing real well, Bro!