Ibadan: A Consultant Paediatric Neurologist, Dr. Joy Alejo, says autism is not a curse but a neurodevelopmental condition, which is manageable with the right support. Alejo, from the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, made the assertion in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ibadan, in commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day on Thursday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, World Autism Awareness Day is commemorated on April 2 annually, and the 2026 theme is ‘Autism and Humanity – Every Life has Value’. The consultant paediatric neurologist insisted that Autism was not a curse, rather a condition that required medical attention and support, emphasizing that no two children with autism presented the same way.
She highlighted early signs of autism, including not making eye contact, delayed speech, and repetitive behaviors. Dr. Alejo advised parents to seek immediate developmental assessment from a paediatrician if these signs are noticed. She noted that risk factors for autism are multifactorial, including genetics, advanced parental age, prenatal infections, and premature birth. Dr. Alejo emphasized that vaccines do not cause autism, a claim repeatedly debunked by the global scientific community.
Parents of children with autism were reassured by Dr. Alejo that their children experience the world differently and can thrive with the right support. She recommended therapies such as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training, noting that early intervention leads to better outcomes.
Dr. Alejo reflected on the theme of World Autism Awareness Day, asserting that every child with autism is fully human and worthy of dignity and belonging. She remarked that society should be judged by its treatment of vulnerable members, advocating for inclusion beyond charity, recognizing it as justice.
Social Worker Dr. Rosemary Odigbo further emphasized the importance of accessing autism support services through various channels. She encouraged parents and caregivers to seek assessment for developmental differences. Dr. Odigbo highlighted the vital role social workers play in linking families to services and advocating for inclusion, addressing challenges like stigma and financial strain.
Communities are urged to promote inclusion by creating environments that accept differences, with schools adopting inclusive practices and training teachers. Dr. Odigbo called on society to move beyond awareness to acceptance and action, reinforcing that autism is a different way of experiencing the world, not a limitation to humanity. She emphasized building a society where individuals with autism are supported and celebrated.