The Punuka Foundation has called on federal and state governments, the private sector, and the wider public to intensify efforts in supporting children with developmental disabilities in Nigeria.
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Speaking at the Foundation’s annual Walk for Super Special Children held in Lekki, Lagos, Board Chairman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr. Anthony Idigbe, stressed that while Nigeria may have the legal framework to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, the country lacks the commitment and systemic structures necessary to translate these laws into meaningful action.
Dr. Idigbe, who also serves as the Senior Partner at Punuka Attorneys and Solicitors, said, “Nigeria’s greatest challenge is not the absence of laws, but the absence of a spirit of commitment to implement those laws to serve vulnerable populations. Once a disability is identified, there must be a systematic approach to assess the individual’s needs—whether mobility aids, assisted living, or tailored education—so they can live with dignity and purpose.”
He criticised the government’s limited efforts, noting that many children with special needs are left without proper care or opportunities, ultimately becoming marginalized members of society.
“We continue to see children and adults with disabilities abandoned on the streets or reduced to begging, because they have not been empowered to advocate for themselves,” he said. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure their voices are heard and their rights protected.”
The Punuka Foundation operates a Childcare Centre in Lagos that serves children with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and other developmental conditions.
Also speaking at the event, Executive Director and Trustee of the Foundation, Mrs. Elizabeth Idigbe, identified lack of funding as one of the major barriers to effective care and inclusion.
“Funding translates directly into infrastructure, assistive devices, trained personnel, and access to therapies,” she noted. “While Lagos State has made commendable steps towards inclusive education, many public schools still suffer from inadequate facilities and staffing.”
Mrs. Idigbe emphasized that many families, especially those from low-income backgrounds, cannot afford therapies or basic support for their children. “Foundation-led interventions are limited in scope without consistent funding. We need stronger regulatory measures that mandate accessible buildings and enforce penalties for non-compliance,” she said.
She further stressed the need for effective implementation of existing laws: “We have legal frameworks in place, but without enforcement from the top down, they remain mere words on paper.”
Angela Ezenweani, Acting Chief Operating Officer of Punuka Foundation, highlighted the broader purpose of the annual walk as a platform for raising awareness and celebrating the resilience of children with neurodiverse conditions.
“Every child has unique potential. Our role as a society is to create an enabling environment for them to thrive, express themselves, and reach their full capabilities,” Ezenweani said.
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