Parents and corporate organisations have called on the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government to show greater commitment toward 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, Gbagada football field, Lagos, marking the end of its October awareness programme.
A statement shared with PUNCH Online on Monday disclosed these.
Speaking at the event, Head, Brand and Communications at Linkage Assurance, Miss Nancy Peter, urged the Federal Government to “invest more in inclusive education and healthcare that accommodate the needs of children with intellectual disabilities.”
She added, “Corporate organisations must also lend their support through partnerships that empower these children to live dignified lives.
“Linkage Assurance will continue to champion causes that promote equality, inclusion, and hope for all.”
Reinforcing the appeal, a parent and the Vice Chairman of the PTA-DSFN, Olayinka Abayomi Ijale, encouraged other parents not to hide their children due to stigma.
“Every child deserves visibility and love, regardless of their condition,” he said.
Similarly, Mrs. Ruth Ugouegbulan, another parent, praised DSFN’s impact, noting that “the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria has shown that when these children are given the right care, they can excel beyond expectations.”
She urged parents to “drop the fear and stigma and allow their children to flourish through inclusive opportunities.”
Corporate representatives at the event echoed these sentiments.
Lead Brand Manager, NSIA Insurance Limited, Mr. Dehinbo Odunayo, said, “True national development must include everyone, especially those with intellectual disabilities.
“NSIA Insurance remains committed to supporting initiatives that break barriers and foster inclusion.”
Likewise, Customer Support Manager at Cummins West Africa Limited, Mr. Oladipupo Olabode, stated that “our partnership with DSFN is a reflection of our belief that diversity is strength.
“We must all work together to create an inclusive society.
“Government and private organizations have a shared responsibility to ensure no one is left behind.”
In her remarks, National Administrator of DSFN, Mrs. Nike Denis, appreciated the sponsors and participants for their continued support.
“This event is not just a celebration—it’s an advocacy platform to remind society that inclusion is a collective responsibility.
“The smiles on the faces of our children today show what happens when love, acceptance, and opportunity meet,” she said.
According to the statement, Linkage Assurance, sponsored the funfair which brought together families, caregivers, and corporate partners for a day of unity and celebration.
Activities included a football competition, table tennis, raffle draws, and other games promoting inclusion and teamwork.
NSIA West Africa emerged the tournament champion, followed by Opeodu Strikers and Cummins West Africa Limited as runners-up.
The DSFN reiterated its “call for stronger partnerships between government and the private sector,” emphasising that “sustained inclusion begins with deliberate policy and community support.”
