The Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria has demanded an end to the exclusion of people with Down’s syndrome.
During an occasion celebrating the 2025 World Down’s Syndrome Day with the theme "Enhancing Support Structures – ‘Healthcare Access’" in the Ifako-Ijaye Local Government Area of Lagos State, this call was initiated.
At the occasion, Mrs Funmi Falana, SAN, voiced her worries about individuals with Down’s syndrome, stating that they should not face any form of discrimination.
Falana mentioned that Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution states that nobody should face discrimination due to physical disability, place of origin, or gender.
She stated, "Regardless of the policy, privilege, or right that might benefit those who are not vulnerable, these should equally be available to individuals who are vulnerable. People with Down’s syndrome require substantial support."
The assistance starts with helping others recognize that these individuals are just as human as anyone else and require the backing of all community members. Given the challenges they face, society needs to provide additional support to those who are less advantaged.
The National Administrator, Nike Denis, who spoke on behalf of the National President of DFSN, Rose Modi, emphasized that inclusivity is crucial for individuals with Down’s syndrome.
Denis stated, "Our purpose today is to garner support for them, particularly from the government. Upon encountering individuals with this health condition, people often react with astonishment and compassion. However, we aim to prevent others from viewing those with disabilities through a lens of sympathy."
They possess the same rights as others. Our aim is to provide empowerment; they should be able to work. We seek their involvement across various fields, such as education. It’s important for us to observe them actively participating in workplaces. Individuals with intellectual disabilities, particularly those with Down Syndrome, often face exclusion.
You may encounter individuals using wheelchairs, those who are visually impaired, and many more engaged in work. However, you rarely observe people with intellectual disabilities employed due to their need for assistance. Often, these individuals are perceived as lacking intelligence or struggling to manage tasks. Our mission is to challenge this notion since every person has the right to be included.
The Chief Consultant at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Yaba, Dr. Olufunmi Akinola, stated that children with Down Syndrome should receive care at the facility as their challenges can be identified and addressed from an early stage.
Akinola stated, "Children with Down syndrome are friendly, gentle, and pleasant, and we ought to encourage their development along these lines. As infants, they require proper guidance."
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).
0 Comments