Foundation Raises Alarm Over Undiagnosed Dyslexia Among Nigerian Children
The Joe Ezigbo Foundation for Dyslexia has expressed profound concern regarding the health and educational consequences of undiagnosed dyslexia among children in Nigeria. The organization is urgently calling for the implementation of early screening protocols and robust support systems to address this widespread issue.
Launch Event and Alarming Statistics
During its official launch event held in Lagos, the foundation brought together a diverse group of experts, individuals living with dyslexia, parents, and key stakeholders. The primary goal was to strategize on effective methods to tackle the significant learning challenges faced by affected children. According to data presented by the foundation, an estimated one in every five Nigerian children may be living with dyslexia. Shockingly, approximately 80 percent of these children currently lack any access to professional screening or appropriate support services.
Understanding Dyslexia and Its Hidden Nature
Dyslexia is a lifelong neurological condition that impacts an individual's ability to read, spell, and decode words, despite possessing normal intelligence. It involves distinct differences in how the brain processes language, often characterized by reduced activation in the left hemisphere. Mrs. Nne Oramasionwu, a board-certified cognitive specialist and member of the foundation's Board of Trustees, emphasized the condition's hidden nature and the damaging myths that surround it.
"Many Nigerian parents remain completely unaware of dyslexia because its symptoms are less visible compared to other developmental disorders," Oramasionwu explained. "Parents might simply conclude that their child is not performing well academically or dislikes reading. That perception is our major red flag." She further cautioned against dangerous misconceptions that label dyslexia as a character flaw, laziness, or a spiritual problem, which can severely damage a child's confidence and lead to unfair treatment by educators.
Personal Testimonies Highlight Systemic Gaps
Chinelo Ezigbo, who identifies as dyslexic, shared her personal struggles growing up in Nigeria. She recounted difficulties with seeing the board, spelling words correctly, and processing information efficiently. Examinations were particularly daunting, as no accommodations, such as extra time, were ever provided. She contrasted this experience with the support she later received in the United Kingdom, where accommodations like extended exam time, assistive software, and understanding teachers enabled her to succeed academically.
Ezigbo also highlighted the severe psychological toll of undiagnosed dyslexia, which often includes persistent low self-esteem and deep feelings of shame. Her testimony underscored the critical need for systemic change within the Nigerian educational and healthcare frameworks.
Foundation's Strategic Plans and Advocacy
To bridge these identified gaps, the Joe Ezigbo Foundation has outlined comprehensive plans. These include establishing dedicated assessment centres across Nigeria to provide early intervention and support for both children and adults. The foundation will also conduct extensive advocacy programs in schools, community centres, churches, and mosques to educate parents and teachers. A core message is that children with dyslexia can excel academically and personally when provided with the correct interventions.
Additionally, the foundation has launched a dedicated hotline to guide parents through the assessment process and connect them with appropriate intervention resources. The chairman of the foundation, Professor Joe Ezigbo, stressed that dyslexia must be recognized as a neurological condition, not a disease. Reflecting on his motivation, he cited the struggles of his own children and the transformative impact that proper diagnosis and specialized teaching methods had on their lives.
Funding and a Multidisciplinary Approach
"These children are not idiots. The problem often lies with the schools and teachers who have not yet discovered the right instructional methods for them," Professor Ezigbo stated. Regarding funding, he revealed that he is currently financing the foundation's operations personally following his retirement. "I have ploughed back my resources to ensure no child is left behind. Our aim is to first establish a strong, effective foundation; we believe support from other partners will follow once tangible results become visible," he explained. He emphasized the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, involving healthcare professionals, educators, and families in the effective management of dyslexia.
