Raising a child with autism comes with challenges, but finding help shouldn’t be one of them. Yet, for many Nigerian parents, the reality is different. Therapy is expensive. Special schools charge high fees. And support services? Many families don’t even know where to start.
But here’s the good news: there are free and low-cost autism resources in Nigeria, if you know where to look. This guide will show you exactly how to find them, apply for support, and give your child the best chance to thrive.
Public Hospitals Offering Free Autism Assessments
While private hospitals charge high fees, many government hospitals offer free or subsidized autism assessments. The catch? You might have to deal with long waiting lists, but if affordability is your priority, this is a solid first step. Visit the pediatrics or neurology department and ask about developmental screening. Some hospitals require referrals from general practitioners, so check their policies beforehand. If there’s a waiting list, register early to secure a spot.
These are some hospitals that offer evaluations.
Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba – Offers developmental assessments and referrals.
Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba – Provides free autism evaluations on specific days.
University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan – Has child specialists who assess autism at reduced costs.
NGOs Providing Free Therapy and Support
Therapy plays a crucial role in helping autistic children develop communication, social, and motor skills. But in Nigeria, private therapy sessions can be painfully expensive. The good news? Several nonprofit organizations offer free or subsidized therapy for children on the spectrum.
Patrick Speech and Languages Centre (Lagos) provides affordable therapy and scholarships for some families. The Zeebah Foundation (Abuja & Lagos) Offers subsidized speech and occupational therapy while the Autism Awareness Foundation (Nigeria-wide) runs free parent training and therapy sessions.
Contact these organizations directly to ask about available free programs, grants, or financial aid.
Free Online Autism Training for Parents
Can you learn to help your child at home? Absolutely. A lot of nigerian parents can’t afford weekly therapy sessions. But with the right training, you can start helping your child at home.
Check out Empower Autism (www.empowerautism.org.ng) it has online courses for Nigerian parents. In addition, search for “Autism Therapy at Home” on YouTube for free video guides.
Start with vetted free online resources and practice daily with your child. Many children show progress when they do this consistently.
Government-Funded Special Schools
Not all private special schools charge millions. Some government-funded schools provide affordable education and therapy. If you're in Lagos, you can check out Modupe Cole Memorial Childcare & Treatment Home, and Pacelli School for the Blind & Partially Sighted Children, Lagos (Offers autism-friendly learning for kids with multiple disabilities)
FCT School for the Gifted & Special Needs, Abuja Has autism-inclusive education at subsidized rates.You can visit the school offices to inquire about admissions, tuition waivers, or available scholarships.
Community Support Groups (Autism Parenting In Nigeria)
A lot of parents feel isolated when raising an autistic child, but connecting with others who understand can make all the difference. Also, support groups provide more than just emotional comfort. They connect parents to practical resources, free therapy opportunities, and school recommendations. Search “Autism Support Nigeria” on social media of to find active communities. We also welcome you to join the APIN community where you can get access to practical advice, emotional support and vetted information.
So join a group, ask questions, share struggles, and learn from other parents.
Churches and Mosques Offering Autism Support
Many churches and mosques now offer free therapy sessions, awareness programs, and financial aid for children with autism. The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) runs autism outreach programs in some branches. Nasrul-Lahi-il Fathi Society (NASFAT) supports Muslim families with autistic children and If you're catholic, The Catholic Church provides therapy grants and special education referrals.
Speak to your local religious leaders and ask about special needs programs or funding opportunities.
Corporate & International Grants for Autism Support
What if someone else pays for your child’s therapy? Corporate foundations and international organizations offer grants to Nigerian families raising autistic children.
Where to Apply
MTN Foundation Disability Support Project
UNICEF Nigeria Child Support Grants
Check their websites regularly for open applications. Grants are competitive, so apply early.
Free Autism Screening Camps
Some organizations host free autism screening events to help parents identify signs early. GTBank Autism Program offers free assessments during their annual autism awareness events. Blazing Heart Autism Centre (Port Harcourt) runs periodic free screenings.
State government commissions also organize local health fairs where you can get free developmental check-ups. Keep your ears to the ground by following autism foundations on social media to stay updated on upcoming free screenings.
Scholarships for Autism Education
There are schools and organizations that offer scholarships for children with autism. Especially if you're struggling with school fees. For example, TLP Centre (Lagos) occasionally offers school fee assistance,
Kaduna State Government Disability Scholarship covers education for special needs children. There are also Private Donor Programs where philanthropists fund autism education. Reach out directly to these disability agencies to ask about available scholarships.
State-Sponsored Disability Benefits
State governments have support programs for children with disabilities, including autism. Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Rivers State Disability Support Program and the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs provides financial aid for therapy and even help with medical and education costs. Visit your state’s disability office to check out what support you qualify for.
Help Is Available. You Just Need to Know Where to Look
Finding autism support in Nigeria can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. The key is to start early, ask questions, and take advantage of every available resource.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with other parents who might be struggling to find support. Together, we can make autism care more accessible for every Nigerian child.