The Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria (DSFN) and a coalition of advocacy organisations have renewed calls for the full inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities in all policies and programmes concerning their Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

The demand was contained in a communiqué issued on Thursday following a webinar held on Wednesday as part of DSFN’s 2025 Down Syndrome Awareness Campaign, themed “Inclusive Healthcare Support for All.”

The virtual event brought together local and international stakeholders to discuss barriers and policy gaps affecting persons with intellectual disabilities, particularly regarding their right to bodily autonomy, marriage, and protection from abuse.

The communiqué stressed that the challenges faced by persons with intellectual disabilities are largely societal rather than personal, noting that “barriers to marriage and intimate relationships do not stem from the individuals themselves but from discrimination and stigma.”

“Persons with intellectual disabilities are capable of forming relationships and enjoying marriage if supported by a strong family system and community understanding, which would enable them to live fulfilled marital lives,” the groups stated.

Beyond the issue of relationships, the coalition called for stronger legal protections for victims of abuse “regardless of age or ability,” and for the creation of communication support systems to help individuals express themselves and report violations effectively.

It also urged families to strike a balance between safeguarding and empowerment, helping their children develop independence, self-awareness, and confidence. The groups further encouraged the teaching of “sensorial and alternative communication methods” to improve inclusion.

The communiqué went on to call for inclusive national policies to ensure equitable access to development programmes and government resources.

“The need for inclusive policies to ensure equitable access to national resources and participation in development initiatives from the government are what we want persons with intellectual disabilities to be part of,” it added.

In her remarks, Mrs. Rose Mordi, National President of the Down Syndrome Foundation Nigeria, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to continuous advocacy, education, and engagement with policymakers.

“Government agencies, civil society, and the public must move beyond rhetoric to take decisive action to guarantee the full inclusion and rights of persons with intellectual disabilities. The time for equitable opportunity is now,” Mordi declared.

The webinar featured key partners including Inclusion Africa, African Down Syndrome Network, Alpana Venture Limited (UK), Simone’s Oasis Foundation, Freo Wellbeing (UK), and the Centre for Forensic Programmes and DNA Studies (CEFPADS), University of Benin, signalling a united front in the push for inclusive healthcare and human rights.

Globally, people with disabilities particularly those with intellectual impairments remain underrepresented in SRHR programmes and disproportionately vulnerable to sexual abuse and exploitation. Advocates say stronger legal frameworks and social reforms are essential to ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of equitable healthcare and human rights.