The Federal Government has announced a broad initiative to strengthen autism care through expanded professional training and the establishment of specialist centers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Minister of Education Tunji Alausa said the program would address shortages in audiology, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy.
He said the number of universities offering the specialized courses had increased from about four to nearly 16, with plans to support additional institutions.
The government is investing in the workforce required to improve diagnosis, therapy and rehabilitation services for children with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other developmental conditions.
Alausa said many families still travelled outside Nigeria for specialized care because of limited local capacity, describing the situation as unacceptable.
Beginning next year, universities offering the relevant programs will receive targeted support for infrastructure, equipment and instructional materials.
The Ministry of Education has also directed the National Board for Technical Education to accelerate accreditation for the Federal School of Occupational Therapy and the occupational therapy diploma program at the University of Benin.
Alausa said the move would create clearer academic progression from diploma to degree level and strengthen professional career pathways.
The minister announced that six autism centers would be established in 2027, one in each geopolitical zone.
The centers will provide diagnosis, therapy and research services and are expected to serve as regional centres of excellence for families, professionals and educational institutions.
