Federal government has reiterated its commitment to promoting inclusion and strengthening support systems for persons living with autism, as Nigeria joined the global community to mark World Autism Awareness Day.

This was disclosed in a statement yesterday by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, aligning with the 2026 theme, ‘Autism and Humanity: Every Life Has Value.’

The minister said the theme underscored the need to move beyond awareness to actionable inclusion, where individuals on the autism spectrum are fully recognised in both policy and practice.

According to the minister, Autism Spectrum Disorder remains a growing public health and social development concern globally, with estimates indicating that about one in every 100 children is affected.

She noted that although Nigeria lacks comprehensive data, emerging assessments suggest increasing prevalence, compounded by underdiagnosis, stigma, and limited access to specialised services.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted that the burden of care disproportionately fell on women and girls who account for over 70 percent of caregiving for persons with developmental conditions, often without pay or recognition.

She warned that without adequate support, this trend could deepen gender inequality, limit women’s participation in the workforce, and weaken household economic stability.

The minister stressed the need to integrate autism into national development priorities, particularly within the framework of Nigeria’s care economy, noting that investment in caregiving systems is both a social responsibility and an economic necessity.

She said the ministry, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Bola Tinubu and the 2026 designation as the Year of Families and Social Development, was implementing a structured approach under the Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention (RHSII-774).

Key priorities outlined include the review of the National Child Policy, expansion of community-based care services, increased advocacy for public investment in caregiving, and the development of national nutrition guidelines.

The minister also disclosed plans to promote locally sourced and nutrient-rich food options such as Tom Brown, alongside the establishment of community centres to support food distribution and nutrition education.

She called on government agencies, civil society, the private sector, and development partners to collaborate in reducing stigma, expanding access to services, and building inclusive systems that support persons with autism and their caregivers.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed solidarity with individuals living with autism and their families, noting that their resilience continues to inspire national action.