Nigerian Autism Expert Calls for Cultural Reorientation on Autism in Africa

Boluwatife Ayanwole, a Nigerian autism expert, calls for a cultural reorientation to improve the understanding and support for individuals with autism in Africa. Ayanwole emphasized the need for governments and societies in Africa to move beyond stigma and myths surrounding autism and provide inclusive and empowering support.

The statement was made during an international neurodiversity conference in Dubai. Ayanwole highlighted that autism is a complex condition influenced by neurological, psychological, and environmental factors, urging the establishment of public autism centers across Africa to provide affordable diagnosis, therapy, and skills training for families in need.