FG urged to sanction states for neglecting disability law

Stakeholders have called on the Federal Government to sanction states that have failed to implement the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018.

The call was made by the Founder and Chairperson of Women Empowerment and Legal Aid, Mrs Funmilayo Falana, during an event organised by The Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria (DSFN) to commemorate the 2025 World Down Syndrome Day themed; “Improving Support Systems – Access to Healthcare,” which took place at Ifako Ijaiye Local Government Area, Lagos State.

The event reinforced calls for stronger government policies and societal efforts to support individuals with Down syndrome, advocating for their inclusion in all aspects of life, including education, healthcare, and employment.

According to Falana, the government has not done enough to address the needs of people with Down syndrome in Nigeria. She criticised the lack of specialised medical personnel trained to care for individuals with the condition. She noted that regular healthcare professionals may not be adequately equipped to handle their specific needs and emphasised the necessity of specialised training.

Falana further expressed concern over the “Japa syndrome,” referring to the mass emigration of Nigerian medical professionals, which she said has led to a shortage of experts in the country.

She stressed the importance of strengthening support systems for people with disabilities and argued that such support should not be left solely to the public but should be a priority for the government as well.

The activist also highlighted Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees freedom from discrimination, stating that the same privileges and rights granted to others should also be accessible to individuals with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome. Falana urged Nigerians to move beyond mere sympathy and ensure that children with disabilities are granted their full rights.

In her remarks, the National Administrator of DSFN, Nike Denis, who represented the President, Rose Modi, emphasised the need for inclusivity for persons with Down syndrome.

Denis called for increased governmental support and urged society to stop perceiving individuals with Down syndrome with pity.

“They have rights like everyone else. We want them to be empowered; they can work. We want to empower them in all sectors, including education and employment.

Persons with intellectual disorders, such as those with Down syndrome, are often marginalised.

“While individuals with physical disabilities like blindness or mobility impairments are seen working, it is rare to see those with intellectual disorders gain employment. This needs to change,” Denis stated.

Also, Chief Consultant at Neuropsychiatric Hospital Yaba, Dr Olufunmi Akinola, underscored the importance of early medical intervention for children with Down syndrome. Akinola emphasised that these children are sociable and kind, and as such, should be provided with proper healthcare from infancy to ensure their well-being.