About Us

Who are we?

Down syndrome Association of Nigeria is a non-governmental, not-for-profit association of children with Down syndrome as well as their parents, caregivers, and other interested stakeholders.

History

Down syndrome association of Nigeria was formed (founded) on 4th of December, 2001 by a parent of a child with Down syndrome. Societal attitude toward parents of people with Down syndrome is totally negative in the Nigerian society. Society defines them by what they do not have rather than what they have; what they cannot do rather than what they can do; they are relegated, denigrated and stigmatised on the basis of some retrogressive myth and tradition They are abused physically and sexually with impunity and in extreme cases; even their right to life itself is denied them.

It is against this rather harrowing and ugly backdrop that Down Syndrome Association of Nigeria evolved with a vowed commitment to bridge the gap between children/adults with Down syndrome and the rest of the society through a support system that seeks ultimately to integrate them. This commitment is rooted in the firm belief that if given the necessary encouragement and enabling environment to grow like others, people with

Down syndrome can and do actualise their potentials and live a fulfilled life. In a vast country like Nigeria, as well as in the entire West African coast, with a combined population of well over 230 million, we are the known non-governmental organization working to provide leadership in all areas of concern as it relates to persons with Down syndrome. It should be noted that charity/volunteer work in our part of the world could be most challenging and frustrating, especially as there is very insignificant, if any, support (both morally/financially) from the Government and corporate concern

Mission Statement

Vision – Our vision is a world where all young people with Down syndrome are offered the opportunities that they need to achieve their individual potential. Mission – Our mission is to improve the opportunities offered to young people with Down syndrome. We do this by discovering their potential and by identifying how to support their personal development most effectively through scientific research. We then communicate evidence-based information and guidance through publishing, training and consultancy services to families and professionals worldwide. Through scientific research and global communication, we transform the lives of people with Down syndrome everywhere.