Nigeria to Launch Six Autism Care Centres by 2027

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to establish Autism Care Centres in each of the six geopolitical zones, beginning in 2027. This initiative aims to improve diagnosis, treatment, research, and specialist training for children with autism and other developmental conditions.

Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, made the announcement during a stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, as reported by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Ikharo Attah. The centres will offer comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services, advance research, and serve as regional centres of excellence.

Alausa noted the initiative is part of a broader strategy to address the shortage of skilled professionals in fields like Audiology and Occupational Therapy, with the number of Nigerian universities offering these programmes increasing from four to nearly sixteen. He also mentioned that the Federal Government would provide targeted support to universities running specialized programmes, including infrastructure expansion and modern equipment.

The reforms align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.