The Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria (DSFN) has intensified its advocacy for the rights of persons with intellectual disabilities, calling on the Federal Government to fully implement the Intellectual Disabilities Act.
As part of the campaign, the Foundation is set to launch a Community and Market Outreach Programme at Wuse Market, Abuja, on Saturday, December 13, 2025, taking its awareness drive directly to public spaces.
The call was contained in a statement titled “DSFN Storms Abuja Markets, Demands Full Implementation of Intellectual Disabilities Act,” made available to journalists on Friday.
According to the statement, DSFN held a press briefing ahead of the outreach, during which its National President, Mrs. Rose Mordi, explained that the initiative is aimed at deepening public awareness, strengthening inclusion, and engaging traders, residents, caregivers, and families on issues affecting persons with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities.
She noted that the programme will feature free assessment and counselling sessions for families, distribution of educational materials, and wide-ranging public sensitisation activities. Market leaders and community members are also expected to participate in interactive sessions designed to demystify Down syndrome and promote acceptance at the grassroots level.
Mordi lamented that despite the existence of legal protections for persons with intellectual disabilities in Nigeria, weak implementation continues to deny many individuals access to essential support services.
“We are urging the Federal Government to move beyond policy declarations and take decisive steps to activate the full provisions of the Intellectual Disabilities Act. Too many lives are being affected due to gaps in implementation,” she said.
She also appealed to parents and guardians not to hide or isolate children living with Down syndrome, stressing that with appropriate care, training, and support, they can lead productive and fulfilling lives.
“Children with Down syndrome are capable, talented, and filled with potential. With adequate care and training—such as those provided by DSFN—they can thrive. We want families to know they are not alone; we walk this journey with them,” Mordi added.
The Foundation further called on government agencies, civil society organisations, market associations, and the media to intensify collaborative efforts toward building an inclusive society where every individual can access opportunities and live with dignity.
DSFN noted that the Abuja market outreach is part of its ongoing nationwide efforts to raise awareness and promote social acceptance of persons living with Down syndrome.
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