TETFund reports committee to plan autism centres across Nigeria

Reports say TETFund has set up a national committee to create a plan for international-standard autism centres in all six Nigerian geopolitical zones. We have not yet seen an official notice from TETFund.

The committee will draft workable, evidence-based advice on how to establish the planned centres in chosen university medical schools. The centres aim to offer early diagnosis, developmental evaluation, treatment, rehabilitation, research, professional training, public awareness and support for families.

Placing the centres in every geopolitical zone should make specialised services easier to reach and lessen the strain on families who must travel far. Numerous families with autistic children experience late diagnosis due to denial, restricted access, money problems and lack of professional help.

The centres may receive backing from the 2027 TETFund Special Intervention once the committee’s findings, suitable institutions, resources and approvals are confirmed. Clear criteria for choosing host institutions are geographical coverage, current medical and academic facilities, staff capacity, institutional dedication and the capacity to maintain the centres.

Executive Secretary Sonny Echono asked members to ground their recommendations in thorough needs studies, realistic cost figures, technical details, measurable outcomes and reliable sustainability plans. Committee chair Prof. Ebunoluwa Aderonke Adejuyigbe said the assignment is a significant step toward a coordinated and sustainable autism care system.

Who it affects

Families with children who have autism and the medical schools that may host the centres will benefit from improved services and training.