By Ololade Adeniji – for Colours of the Mind, an Autism Action Project
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact socially, and process sensory information.
Increasingly, in Nigeria, people recognise autism, but understanding remains limited and support systems are still developing.
Many families face stigma, misinformation, and a lack of access to early diagnosis and intervention. This reality makes it essential not only to raise awareness but to deepen public understanding and advocate for early support.
Autism Often Misunderstood
In Nigerian communities, autistic children are often misunderstood.
Behaviours such as avoiding eye contact, repetitive movements, or delayed speech may be misinterpreted as signs of stubbornness, spiritual affliction, or mental illness.
These misconceptions can lead to isolation, mistreatment, and missed opportunities for growth.
Awareness campaigns have helped spark conversations, but we must go beyond simply knowing that autism exists.
We need to understand what it means to live with autism, and how we can support autistic individuals to thrive.
Autism is a spectrum, meaning it presents differently in each person. Some autistic individuals speak fluently; others may be non-verbal.
The Need Acceptance
Some require lifelong support, while others live independently and excel in their careers. What they all need is acceptance, empathy, and environments that accommodate their differences.
In Nigeria, organisations like the Halima Adewole Autism Foundation and the Ike Foundation for Autism are working to shift public perception.
They promote inclusive education, train caregivers, and advocate for policies that protect the rights of autistic people.
Early support is one of the most powerful tools we have.
When autism is identified early, ideally before the age of five, children can receive therapies that help with communication, sensory regulation, and social skills.
These may include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioural interventions.
However, access to these services in Nigeria remains limited.
Government Investment /School’s Input
Many families struggle to find qualified professionals, and therapy costs vary widely depending on location and provider. Public hospitals often lack trained personnel, and private centres may be unaffordable for many.
This gap highlights the urgent need for government investment in early childhood services, training for healthcare workers, and public education to reduce stigma.
Schools also play a crucial role. Inclusive education, where autistic children learn alongside their peers in supportive environments, can foster understanding and reduce bullying.
Autism Is Not A Tragedy
Most importantly, teachers need training to recognise signs of autism and adapt their teaching methods to meet diverse needs.
Autism is not a tragedy; it is a difference.
But without understanding and support, autistic people can face unnecessary hardship.
As a society, we must educate ourselves and others, challenge harmful myths, support inclusive policies, and celebrate neurodiversity.
Really, creating a Nigeria where autistic individuals are understood, supported, and empowered to live full lives is not just a dream, it is a responsibility we all share.
At Colours of the Mind, we believe that every autistic person deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, we are working to build a more inclusive Nigeria, one conversation, one classroom, and one family at a time.
