Joe Ezigbo Foundation Launches to Protect Nigerian Children from Undiagnosed Dyslexia
Lagos – The Joe Ezigbo Foundation for Dyslexia has raised urgent concerns over the large number of Nigerian children living with undiagnosed dyslexia, calling for early screening and supportive interventions to protect their educational and psychological well-being.
The foundation was officially launched in Lagos, bringing together experts, parents, dyslexic individuals, and stakeholders to address learning challenges faced by affected children. According to the foundation, about one in five Nigerian children may have dyslexia, yet nearly 80 percent lack access to professional diagnosis or support systems.
Dyslexia is a lifelong neurological condition that affects reading, spelling, and word processing despite normal intelligence. Experts warn that misconceptions labeling dyslexic children as lazy or unintelligent can harm their confidence and limit educational opportunities. Mrs. Nne Oramasionwu, a board-certified cognitive specialist and member of the foundation’s Board of Trustees, emphasized that “parents may simply say their child does not perform well or dislikes reading. That’s our red flag.”
The foundation aims to protect children’s right to education and development by promoting awareness, early diagnosis, and teacher training. Plans include establishing assessment centres nationwide, offering guidance hotlines for parents, and advocating in schools and community centers to ensure children receive the interventions they need.
Chairman Prof. Joe Ezigbo stressed that dyslexia is a neurological condition, not a disease. Sharing his personal experience with his children, he noted that early intervention and specialized teaching can transform outcomes for dyslexic learners. “These children are not idiots. The problem lies with the schools and teachers who have not found the right way to instruct them,” he said.
Personal testimonies, including that of Chinelo Ezigbo, highlighted the psychological toll of undiagnosed dyslexia. In contrast, support received in the United Kingdom, such as extra exam time and assistive tools, allowed her to succeed academically.
The foundation is currently self-funded by Prof. Ezigbo, with plans to build a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals to safeguard dyslexic children’s right to learning, protection, and full development.
This initiative marks a significant step toward ensuring that children with learning differences in Nigeria are recognized, supported, and protected from educational neglect.
