— A Bold Step Toward Inclusion, Early Intervention, and Support for Families of Persons with Autism
By Agbo Christian Obiora
ABUJA, Nigeria — In a groundbreaking move that could transform Nigeria’s approach to neurodevelopmental disorders, the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan, has sponsored a bill for the establishment of National and Regional Centers for Autism across the country.
The proposed legislation, which has passed first reading on the floor of the Senate, seeks to institutionalize a national framework for the diagnosis, therapy, rehabilitation, and support of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) — both children and adults.
A National Vision for Autism Inclusion
The bill, described by analysts as a milestone in disability and public health policy, proposes the creation of a National Center for Autism in Abuja, supported by six regional centers strategically located across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
These centers will provide early screening, therapy, special education, and rehabilitation services while coordinating with existing healthcare institutions to offer genetic testing, parental guidance, and early intervention programs, particularly for children under the age of five.
In addition to therapy and diagnosis, the centers will function as hubs for vocational training, skill acquisition, and employment facilitation for adults with autism — ensuring that individuals on the spectrum are not only diagnosed but also empowered to live fulfilling, independent lives.
Bridging a National Gap in Care and Awareness
Autism Spectrum Disorder has long remained an underdiagnosed and misunderstood condition in Nigeria, often leading to stigma, delayed treatment, and exclusion from education and employment. Many families continue to struggle in silence due to the absence of specialized diagnostic centers, trained therapists, and supportive structures at the national level.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bill aims to bridge this critical gap by establishing a coordinated, government-led response to autism — one that integrates medical, educational, and social support services under a unified policy framework.
“This initiative will not only address the clinical and developmental needs of individuals with autism but also support families through education, counseling, and empowerment,” the lawmaker explained.
‘A Step Toward Inclusion and Care’ — Senator Natasha
Speaking via her verified social media handle, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan described the bill as “a significant step toward inclusion and care”, emphasizing that every Nigerian child deserves the opportunity to thrive regardless of their neurodiversity.
She highlighted that the proposed centers would serve as research and innovation hubs, focusing on data collection, behavioral science, and evidence-based interventions that align with global best practices in autism care.
“Like Elon Musk, Bill Gates, Albert Einstein, Lionel Messi, Tim Burton, Bobby Fischer, Temple Grandin, and other autistic geniuses, every Nigerian child deserves access to specialized health and educational care as well as support,” she said.
“This bill is a promise to make that a reality.”
Her statement has since sparked widespread commendation across social media platforms, with disability rights advocates, parents of children with autism, and public health experts describing the bill as “timely, visionary, and compassionate.”
A Framework Rooted in Rights and Inclusion
The proposed legislation is deeply anchored in Nigeria’s constitutional and international obligations, particularly under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which Nigeria ratified in 2007. It also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Furthermore, the bill complements the National Policy on Inclusive Education and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, both of which call for accessible and inclusive systems for all Nigerians, regardless of ability.
Hope for Families and the Future of Autism Care in Nigeria
If passed into law, the National Autism Centers will be a first-of-its-kind initiative in Nigeria’s history — a move that could revolutionize how the nation understands and manages autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
Experts believe that beyond providing therapy and medical services, the centers could also function as training institutes for therapists, special educators, and caregivers, helping to close the gap in human resource capacity that has long hindered autism support services in the country.
The centers will also serve as national referral points for diagnosis and research, generating critical data to guide evidence-based policymaking and resource allocation for persons with autism.
A Broader Call for Legislative Support
Stakeholders in the disability and health sectors have hailed Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s initiative as a bold and forward-thinking intervention, urging her colleagues in the National Assembly to fast-track the bill’s passage.
Dr. Amina Sulaiman, a child development specialist based in Abuja, noted that “the bill represents more than legislation — it’s a declaration of national responsibility.”
“Families affected by autism have been left to navigate their challenges alone for too long. This bill gives hope that the government is finally ready to stand with them,” she said.
As the bill moves to its second reading, many Nigerians — particularly parents of children on the autism spectrum — are watching closely, hopeful that this marks the beginning of a new era of awareness, inclusion, and institutional support for neurodiverse citizens.
A New Dawn for Autism Advocacy
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, known for her advocacy for human rights, gender equality, and social justice, has once again demonstrated her commitment to policies that prioritize the dignity and potential of every Nigerian.
Her Autism Centers Bill could very well redefine how Nigeria approaches special needs education, healthcare, and social inclusion — and perhaps, inspire other African nations to follow suit.
As the Senator put it:
“Every child, regardless of their neurological differences, deserves to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society. With this bill, we are building a future where no Nigerian child is left behind.”
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