Government has also been charged to ensure that the laws supporting the welfare of such persons are implemented.
Making the call during a courtesy visit to Vanguard corporate headquarters in Lagos, the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, DSFN, appealed to the government to honour the provisions of the Disability Act passed in 2018, which called for the creation of a Persons with Disability Commission.
Speaking during the visit, the National Administrator, DSFN, Mrs. Nike Denis, expressed frustration that despite the passage of the Act, there has been little progress towards setting up the Commission.
She said: “The government recently established a Commission for Livestock, which is commendable; however, we ask why it has been so difficult to create a commission for people with disabilities, who are equally deserving of structured support.
“Our goal is to highlight the needs and potential of people with Down syndrome and other disabilities, to show that they are not beggars but individuals capable of contributing to society if provided with the right support,” Denis stated.
She explained that Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, leading to developmental challenges both physically and intellectually.
She noted that with the right educational, vocational, and therapeutic interventions, people with Down syndrome can live fulfilling, semi-independent lives.
“At our Foundation, we provide holistic support, including education and vocational training in areas such as barbing, bakery, leatherworks, and photography. These skills empower our students, giving them the means to contribute meaningfully to society,” she added.
Denis also stressed the importance of addressing societal stigma surrounding Down syndrome and other disabilities.
“Cultural and religious barriers often result in children with disabilities being hidden away, depriving them of vital services that could enhance their quality of life. We must break down these barriers and foster a society where PWDs are included and empowered.”
Reiterating the need for the government to implement the provisions of the 2018 Disability Act without further delay, the Publicity Officer of the Foundation, Olanrewaju Adesina, said it would ensure that PWDs are no longer marginalised.
“There is no support at all from government, it is a difficult retain in Nigeria the laws for protecting persons with special needs are not being implemented, however, PWDs should not be seen as beggars. They deserve equal opportunities, and the government must act urgently to create the commission that has already been promised.
Posted by Vanguard
