By Isaac Olufemi
As Nigerians join the rest of the world to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day 2026, the government, corporate bodies, and private individuals have been charged to provide equal opportunities for individuals living with Down syndrome to express themselves.
Mrs. Ibukun Otesile, the president of JCI Ibadan Elite, gave this advice over the weekend while speaking with newsmen at a Down syndrome novelty football match held at Olubadan Stadium to celebrate and raise awareness about Down syndrome.
While speaking on the theme for this year’s celebration, “Together against Loneliness,” she noted everybody lives with a form of disability; however, people whose disability is more pronounced should not be relegated, but loved and supported to achieve their full potential.
The chairman of the Ibadan Football Council, Ambali Rotimi-Ali, reiterated that all humans are equal, irrespective of whatever type of disability; hence, the call for empathy towards this set of individuals.
Ex-Super Eagles player Mutiu Adepoju, who was also present at the matchday, called for engagement on the part of the government and other stakeholders towards the protection and safeguarding of the rights of people living with Down syndrome.
