NGO urges laws to protect Down Syndrome
By Folasade Akpan
No Limit Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has urged the National Assembly to enact laws that protect and enhance the lives of people with Down Syndrome.
The Chief Executive Officer, Mr Thomas Ukuedojor, made this appeal on Friday during a visit to CADET Academy, a school for children with special needs, in Abuja.
The visit was part of activities to mark the 2025 World Down Syndrome Day, globally observed each year on March 21.
The 2025 theme is ‘Improve Our Support Systems’, focusing on strengthening the resources available to individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the day aims to promote inclusion and educate the world about Down Syndrome and the rights of affected individuals.
Ukuedojor stressed the need for an inclusive society where persons with disabilities, especially those with Down Syndrome, feel valued and accepted.
He highlighted the significance of the day, which brings attention to the challenges faced by individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.
Ukuedojor praised CADET Academy for providing professional, quality care and education to children with special needs, particularly those with Down Syndrome.
“We recognise the challenges of teaching children with special needs and urge you to continue striving to impart the right knowledge effectively,” he said.
Miss Joan Tiza, the school’s administrator, urged parents and all levels of government to support efforts to improve the lives of children with Down Syndrome.
“Accepting these children as they are, and seeing them as blessings, is vital to achieving real progress,” she said.
NAN reports that the United Nations states Down Syndrome occurs when a person has an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21.
The cause of the syndrome remains unknown, but it occurs worldwide and often affects learning, physical traits, and health in varying ways.
The UN notes that access to healthcare, early intervention, inclusive education, and appropriate research is essential for individual development.
Globally, the estimated incidence of Down Syndrome is between one in 1,000 to one in 1,100 live births.
“Each year, around 3,000 to 5,000 children are born with this chromosome disorder,” the UN added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
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