The Alternative Bank (AltBank) has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at addressing the widening gap in autism awareness and diagnosis in Nigeria, where hundreds of thousands of children remain undiagnosed and without access to early intervention.
The initiative, themed “It’s How You Show Up,” is being implemented in partnership with the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN), Sterling One Foundation, and Eliakim Foundation. It forms part of activities marking World Autism Month.
Health experts estimate that more than 600,000 Nigerian children are on the autism spectrum, but significant infrastructure challenges mean most lack a formal diagnosis.
Studies indicate that children in Nigeria typically present for clinical evaluation at around seven years old—well beyond the critical window for early intervention.
The situation is compounded by a shortage of specialists, with fewer than 200 psychiatrists serving a population exceeding 200 million.
AltBank said its campaign is designed to confront these systemic challenges through targeted interventions, including advocacy, professional training for caregivers, funded clinical screenings, and stakeholder engagement.
The screenings aim to provide clear pathways for children to access medical care and educational support following diagnosis.
The campaign will culminate in a stakeholder roundtable and policy dialogue scheduled for April 24 in Lagos.
The session is expected to bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and financial sector leaders to explore the integration of autism screening into Nigeria’s primary healthcare system and develop sustainable financing models for post-diagnosis care.
Participants at the roundtable will review a national evidence brief and commit to measurable actions to strengthen autism support systems across the country.
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Jekwu Ozoemene, Group Executive at AltBank, emphasised the importance of sustained inclusion efforts.“We do not see inclusion as a seasonal task but as a vital part of a healthy society,” he said.
“Through this initiative, we are not just talking about support, we are delivering it. By tracking the results of these screenings and interventions, we can build a real system that helps the autism community and strengthens the nation.”
AltBank noted that the campaign aligns with its broader commitment to social impact investment and inclusive finance. Interested individuals, caregivers, and organisations can access further details about the programme through the bank’s official website.
The Alternative Bank began operations in 2014 as a non-interest banking window under Sterling and became a standalone institution in 2023 after receiving a licence from the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Guided by its Advisory Committee of Experts, the bank operates in line with non-interest banking principles.
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