Nigeria Expands Autism Care with New Initiatives

The Federal Government of Nigeria is taking significant steps to improve autism care by expanding specialist training, investing in tertiary institutions, and establishing autism centres across the country’s six geopolitical zones. Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, stated that this initiative aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in Audiology, Speech and Language Therapy, and Occupational Therapy.

Currently, one in every 100 Nigerian children lives with autism, with approximately 600,000 children affected nationwide. Alausa reported an increase in the number of universities offering specialized programs from four to nearly 16, with plans for further expansion.

He acknowledged that many families still seek specialized care abroad due to limited local capacity, which he deemed unacceptable. The initiative aims to integrate autism care into primary healthcare and enhance public awareness, particularly in rural areas.

Alausa emphasized the need for ongoing investment in human capital to strengthen diagnosis, therapy, and rehabilitation services for families in Nigeria.