In a bid to promote greater understanding and acceptance of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), stakeholders have called for increased awareness and an end to the stigmatization faced by individuals living with autism.
This appeal was made during the 2025 ‘Shine Your Light’ Autism Spectrum Conference, held in Abuja, with the theme, Navigating Autism with Understanding in Africa.
World Autism Awareness Day, recognized annually on April 2, seeks to foster inclusion, raise awareness, and celebrate the contributions of autistic individuals in society.
During the conference, experts and advocates emphasized the need to shift societal perceptions of autism, moving from discrimination and isolation to support and understanding.
The Need for Awareness and Inclusion
The Executive Director of the Ike Foundation for Autism, Dafe Smith, underscored the importance of public enlightenment, stating that misinformation and stigma have long hindered autistic individuals from receiving the care and support they need.
“For too long, autism has been met with misconceptions, stigma, and silence,” Smith said. “Our goal with this conference is to shine a light on autism. Parents should not feel ashamed of their autistic children. There are resources and interventions available, and we need to ensure that every child has access to the care they deserve.”
He also highlighted the foundation’s efforts in establishing early intervention centers where children with autism can access specialized care from trained therapists.
According to Smith, early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve the developmental outcomes of autistic children, helping them integrate better into society.
“We’re advocating for acceptance, increased awareness, and an end to discrimination,” he added.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Dr. Mimi Osamwonyi, a neurologist at the Maitama District Hospital in Abuja, explained that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social interactions, communication challenges, and repetitive behaviors.
“The symptoms of autism vary widely, which is why it is referred to as a spectrum disorder,” Dr. Osamwonyi noted. “Some individuals may have mild symptoms, while others experience more severe challenges.”
She pointed out that globally, approximately one in 10 children is diagnosed with ASD, but in Nigeria, the prevalence is estimated at around 2.3%.
However, due to inadequate diagnostic resources and a lack of awareness, many cases go undetected, leading to underreported figures.
Dr. Osamwonyi also cited genetic factors, family history, and prenatal exposure to certain chemicals, such as valproic acid, as potential contributors to autism. She emphasized that early diagnosis and timely intervention could improve behavioral skills and cognitive development.
“The goal is to optimize functionality and independence,” she said. “Early detection allows for tailored interventions that help children with autism develop essential life skills.”
Call for Government Intervention
Stakeholders at the conference urged the government to take a more active role in autism advocacy by investing in awareness campaigns, early diagnosis programs, and special education facilities.
Dr. Binyerem Ukaire, Director of the Family Health Department at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, stressed the need for creating inclusive environments where autistic individuals can thrive.
“Autism is often misunderstood and stigmatized in Nigeria, which leads to significant barriers in accessing support services,” Dr. Ukaire said. “We must work together to ensure early diagnosis and intervention while fostering a more inclusive society.”
She further urged civil society organizations to advocate for increased financial support for children with special needs, emphasizing that proper funding could facilitate the development of more specialized education programs and healthcare services.
The Role of Parents and Society
Ajala Ibrahim, Chairman of the Parents Therapist Association at the Ike Foundation for Autism, emphasized the role of parents and society in supporting autistic individuals.
“We need to see autistic children as individuals with immense potential rather than subjects of stigma,” Ibrahim said. “Many parents are unaware of where to seek help, and some even keep their children hidden due to fear of discrimination.”
He called for increased investment in technology and therapy programs that could help children with autism develop communication and social skills.
Government Commitment to Inclusion
Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum.
Represented by his Senior Technical Advisor on Youth Health and Policy Research, Dr. Obinna Ebirim, the minister emphasized the need for inclusive policies and youth empowerment programs.
“Our strategic plan for the next two years is rooted in inclusivity,” Olawande said. “We are working towards policies that ensure young persons with disabilities, including those within the autism spectrum, have access to skills development and empowerment opportunities.”
A Call for Collective Action
As autism awareness continues to grow, stakeholders at the conference stressed the importance of collaboration between the government, healthcare providers, parents, and educators in building a more inclusive society.
By fostering understanding, ensuring early interventions, and advocating for policy reforms, Nigeria can create an environment where autistic individuals are valued, supported, and given opportunities to reach their full potential.
The message from the conference was clear: autism is not a limitation but a different way of experiencing the world, and it is time to replace stigma with support and acceptance.
