Stakeholders Urge Tinubu’s Government to Prioritise Welfare of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities

Parents, advocates, and corporate organisations have urged the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, to demonstrate stronger commitment to the inclusion and welfare of persons with intellectual disabilities in Nigeria.

The call was made during the annual family funfair organised by the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria (DSFN) at the National Orthopaedic Hospital football field in Gbagada, Lagos, marking the close of the foundation’s October awareness programme.

Speaking at the event, Head of Brand and Communications at Linkage Assurance, Miss Nancy Peter, appealed to the government to “invest more in inclusive education and healthcare systems that cater to the needs of children with intellectual disabilities.” She also encouraged corporate bodies to partner with advocacy groups to empower these children, assuring that Linkage Assurance would continue to support causes that promote equality and inclusion.

Vice Chairman of the PTA-DSFN, Olayinka Abayomi Ijale, urged parents not to hide their children due to stigma, stressing that “every child deserves visibility and love, regardless of their condition.” Another parent, Mrs. Ruth Ugouegbulan, commended DSFN for its impact, noting that “children with Down syndrome can exceed expectations when given proper care and opportunities.” She further called on parents to overcome fear and stigma to help their children thrive.

Corporate representatives present also echoed similar sentiments. Lead Brand Manager at NSIA Insurance Limited, Mr. Dehinbo Odunayo, said true national development must be inclusive of all citizens, especially those with intellectual disabilities. “NSIA Insurance remains committed to supporting initiatives that foster inclusion and break social barriers,” he said.

Likewise, Mr. Oladipupo Olabode, Customer Support Manager at Cummins West Africa Limited, reaffirmed his company’s partnership with DSFN, describing diversity as a national strength. “Both government and private organisations share the responsibility of ensuring no one is left behind,” he added.

In her closing remarks, the National Administrator of DSFN, Mrs. Nike Denis, appreciated the sponsors and participants for their unwavering support, describing the event as both a celebration and an advocacy platform. “The smiles on our children’s faces today show what happens when love, acceptance, and opportunity meet,” she said.

Sponsored by Linkage Assurance, the funfair brought together families, caregivers, and corporate partners for a day filled with games, sports, and shared experiences promoting unity and inclusion. Activities included football matches, table tennis, and raffle draws. NSIA West Africa emerged champion of the football tournament, with Opeodu Strikers and Cummins West Africa Limited as runners-up.

The DSFN reaffirmed its call for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector, stressing that “sustained inclusion begins with deliberate policy action and community support.”