According to the foundation, deliberate policy action and sustained advocacy are critical to dismantling barriers and addressing the systemic exclusion faced by persons with disabilities.
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – The Ugo Edward-Dibiana Down Syndrome Foundation has decried persistent societal prejudice against persons living with Down Syndrome, calling for urgent action to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities across Nigeria.
In a statement issued in Abuja on March 21 to mark International Down Syndrome Day, the foundation noted that children with Down Syndrome and other disabilities continue to face discrimination and limited access to critical services, despite the existence of the Prohibition Against Discrimination of People with Disabilities Act.
In a statement issued on Saturday, March 31, 2026, the foundation’s co-founder, Duma Edward-Dibiana, stressed that fostering acceptance and understanding remains essential to building a society where every individual is valued and empowered.
Observed annually on March 21, International Down Syndrome Day aims to promote awareness and advocate for the rights, inclusion, and well-being of persons living with Down Syndrome worldwide.
Down Syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to intellectual disability, delayed speech and language development, and distinct physical features. It is not a disease, but a chromosomal variation that affects physical and cognitive development.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Together Against Loneliness,” Edward-Dibiana said individuals with Down Syndrome remain active contributors to society but are often pushed to the margins due to entrenched social and cultural biases.
“Individuals with Down Syndrome are integral, contributing members of our communities, sharing roles as neighbors, classmates, and colleagues. Despite this, many face isolation due to societal reluctance to embrace inclusivity, often rooted in cultural, religious, or social prejudices,” she said.
She warned that rejection and lack of acceptance could trigger emotional and psychological challenges.
“The refusal to unconditionally accept individuals with this kind of congenital biological conditions can lead to profound feelings of isolation, self-doubt, and depression. Being overlooked, underestimated, or excluded can be a painful experience, akin to being physically present yet emotionally disconnected — a poignant paradox of being surrounded by others, yet shrouded in loneliness,” she added.
The foundation urged Nigerians to reflect on societal values and work collectively towards building an inclusive environment that prioritises dignity, equality, and belonging for all.
“It is imperative that our society strives to create an environment that is safe, inclusive, and conducive to the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their conditions. This can be achieved by building and nurturing a culture of acceptance and understanding, where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive,” she said.
The group further called on the government to ensure full implementation of the disability law, noting that weak enforcement by public and private institutions continues to fuel discrimination and stigmatization.
According to the foundation, deliberate policy action and sustained advocacy are critical to dismantling barriers and addressing the systemic exclusion faced by persons with disabilities.
It emphasised that prioritising inclusion would not only protect the rights of vulnerable groups but also foster a more compassionate and equitable society.