Disability law: Foundation urges FG’s urgent compliance

The Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria (DSFN) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government to urgently implement the already enacted disability laws nationwide to ensure protection, quality healthcare, inclusion, and well-being of persons with intellectual disabilities.

The call was made on Saturday in a statement made available to journalists as the foundation marked the 24th edition of its annual October event, themed Health Care for All.

The event featured an awareness, advocacy, and charity walk which ended at the Ikeja Local Government Secretariat. It was co-sponsored by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority and The 7 Fifteen Philanthropic Foundation.

The foundation stressed that its continued advocacy stems from the widening gap in societal inclusion, especially for people with intellectual disabilities who are unable to advocate for themselves.

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“When we talk about disability, there are disabilities, and there are disabilities. Some individuals can speak up for their rights, while others cannot, and it is for them that we raise our voices.

“The people with intellectual disabilities remain largely neglected and underserved in the nation’s healthcare system, resulting in preventable health challenges and shortened lifespans.”

The DSFN urged the government to build sustainable and inclusive healthcare structures to address these gaps, noting that this year’s theme, Health Care for All, reflects its commitment to ensuring that persons with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities are recognised and prioritised in Nigeria’s health policies.

“We planned a fish farming project, designed to promote independence and self-reliance, among individuals with Down syndrome. In this regard, we want to ask why our Federal Government cannot enforce existing disability laws to guarantee integration, dignity, and equal opportunities.

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“For us at Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, this will not only signify progress but also mark a positive shift toward an inclusive nation, where everyone and anyone, regardless of ability, has access to quality healthcare, education, and a life of dignity,” the statement added.

The awareness walk attracted collaborative activism from groups such as Pacelli, Punuka Foundation, OCD Foundation, Lady Atinuke, Association of the Physically Challenged, Lion Ability Foundation, Modupe Cole, Victoria Foundation, and others.

Recall that on August 8, 2025, a report revealed that 17 out of Nigeria’s 36 states are yet to domesticate the Disability Act.

The report, conducted by Agora Policy, a Nigerian think tank and non-profit organisation, highlighted gaps in policy adoption and stressed the need for urgent action.

The organisation engages in policy research, facilitates purposeful dialogue, and builds capacity for governance, policy, and advocacy.