The Evolution of Services for Children with Autism and Developmental Disabilities in Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT Provision of services for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities (DD) in Nigeria has been influenced by US and international research and awareness efforts. Forces that impact progress include Nigerian cultural beliefs and family involvement, societal attitudes, inadequate infrastructure and resources, and inconsistent policy and enforcement of disability laws. These forces can impact families both positively and negatively. A lack of standardised teacher training and accreditation programs limit access for students with disabilities to individualised education programs (IEPs) and classroom inclusion. Effective treatments for those with ASD/DD are well-documented, however these effective interventions often do not reach more rural, low-income, or less developed nations or rural, low socioeconomic US schools. The focus of this paper is to thoroughly analyse the evolution of special education and inclusion in Nigeria and the United States and to highlight how US progression influenced Nigeria and the importance of advocating for culturally relevant, low-cost, research-based interventions and outreach African nations such as Nigeria.