Rising Awareness and Persistent Challenges in Autism Care in Nigeria
As the world observes World Autism Awareness Day, caregivers and experts in Nigeria have highlighted significant challenges in accessing early diagnosis and therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These gaps continue to hinder timely intervention and support, leaving many families struggling to navigate the complex landscape of autism care.
Autism, a neurodevelopmental condition affecting communication, behavior, and social interaction, is becoming more recognized in Nigeria. However, despite growing awareness, major gaps persist, particularly in access to early diagnosis and therapy. For many parents, the journey to secure appropriate care is difficult and often financially burdensome, compounded by late detection and limited professional support.
Diagnosis Gap Fuels Concern
While some Nigerians believe that autism cases are on the rise, specialists argue that this perception is largely due to improved awareness, broader diagnostic criteria, and better recognition of the condition. A paediatrician based in Abuja, Dr Kunle Balogun, noted that children who would previously have been misunderstood are now being properly assessed.
“Decades ago, children with autism were labeled as stubborn, intellectually disabled, or even spiritually afflicted. Today, more parents are seeking professional help, which explains the growing numbers we are seeing,” he said.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), about one in 127 people globally is on the autism spectrum. In Nigeria, however, there is no comprehensive national data, and experts say this lack of reliable statistics reflects a deeper problem: limited access to diagnosis.
A psychologist, Dr Soyombo Adedoyin, explained that improved screening tools and increased awareness mean more children, including those with mild symptoms, are now identified. “We are no longer focusing only on severe cases. Children with subtle communication or social challenges are now recognized as being on the spectrum. That naturally increases reported cases,” she said.
She dismissed claims that autism is more common among children born abroad, attributing the perception to stronger healthcare systems in developed countries. “In those settings, developmental screening is routine. In Nigeria, many children are only assessed when symptoms become obvious. That creates a diagnosis gap,” she added.
A neurologist, Dr Suleiman Abdulazeez, reinforced the point, noting that many Nigerian children remain undiagnosed or are identified too late to benefit from early intervention. “It’s not that autism is more common abroad; it is simply more commonly detected,” he said.
Public Spotlight on Autism Care
In late March, a case involving a young autistic man, Aboy Chibuzor, drew national attention after his caregiver and adoptive guardian, Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, founder of Omega Power Ministries, officiated his marriage to an older single woman. The development followed public backlash over a viral video in which the cleric sought a wife for the man. Aboy, who is non-verbal, requires assistance with daily activities.
According to the pastor, the young man was abandoned as a child at the church gate and has since been raised under his care. He said the man, whose family background is unknown, depends on full-time support, including feeding, bathing, and other daily needs. Chinyere also announced financial support for the couple, including N10 million, a house, and an overseas vacation, describing the arrangement as an effort to provide companionship and long-term care.
The case has sparked conversations around the rights, dignity, and welfare of individuals with autism, as well as the broader need for structured support systems.
Costly Therapy, Limited Access
Beyond diagnosis, access to therapy remains one of the most pressing challenges for families. In major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt, specialized schools and therapy centers exist, but services are often expensive and out of reach for many households. Speech therapy, behavioral therapy, and occupational therapy—critical interventions for children with autism—can cost tens of thousands of naira monthly.
An autism advocate and parent, Adeolu Grace, said the financial burden can be overwhelming. “After diagnosis, the next hurdle is access to therapy. Many families cannot afford it, and public healthcare facilities are not adequately equipped to provide specialized services,” she said.
In rural areas, the situation is more severe, with a shortage of trained professionals and low levels of awareness. As a result, many children receive no intervention at all. Education also remains a concern. Although inclusive education policies exist, implementation is weak, and many mainstream schools lack the capacity to support children with autism, leading to exclusion or poor learning outcomes.
Experts emphasize that misconceptions about autism continue to delay diagnosis and limit support for affected individuals. They stress that autism is not caused by parenting style, spiritual factors, or postnatal environmental exposure. Rather, research shows it results from a complex interaction of genetic and developmental factors.
“Autism begins during early brain development, often before birth. It is not something caused by what parents did or failed to do,” Dr Abdulazeez explained. He added that while genetic factors play a significant role, environmental influences during pregnancy may contribute as risk factors, though not direct causes.
Experts also reiterated that vaccines do not cause autism, a claim that has been widely debunked by scientific research. Another misconception is that all individuals with autism are intellectually disabled. In reality, autism exists on a spectrum, with varying levels of ability and support needs.
“There is no cure for autism, but early intervention can significantly improve outcomes,” Dr Balogun said. “The earlier therapies begin, the better the child’s chances of developing essential skills.”
Government Moves to Close Gaps
Amid growing concerns over access to care, the Federal Government has announced plans to expand training programs for specialists in autism-related services. Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, recently disclosed that the government aims to increase the number of universities offering degree programs in occupational therapy, audiology, and speech therapy from two to 20.
He said the move is part of efforts to address the shortage of trained professionals and strengthen support systems for individuals with developmental conditions. According to him, only Ondo State Medical University and Obafemi Awolowo University currently run such programs, although about 20 institutions have indicated readiness to introduce them, with eight already at advanced stages.
Alausa called on the National Universities Commission to fast-track accreditation for the new programs, noting that expanding the workforce is essential to improving healthcare delivery, inclusive education, and social integration.
A Long Road Ahead
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark World Autism Awareness Day, stakeholders say the focus must shift from awareness to action. For caregivers, the priorities are clear: earlier diagnosis, affordable therapy, and stronger institutional support.
According to experts, until these gaps are addressed, many children with autism will continue to face barriers that limit their development and inclusion in society.
