FG to tackle shortage of manpower in management of neurodisorder services 

The Federal Government is working on exploring available options to bridge the existing gap in the provision of neuro-development disorder services in the country.

President Muhammadu Buhari stated this recently in Abuja at the public presentation of a book on neurodevelopmental disorders written by Dr. Austin Amaechi.

The occasion was also used to launch a non-governmental organization called ‘Neurodevelopmental Disorders Rescue Initiative’ (NDRI).

The President noted that government would also strengthen the existing legislations on neurodevelopmental disorders.

Speaking through the Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, President Buhari, said the Federal Government welcomes the publication and sees it as an opportunity to initiate constructive discussion on progressive implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Author of the book, Dr. Austin Amaechi, lamented that neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), cerebral palsy, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) were on the rise due to lack of structured care system and management.
He said that the book titled ‘Neuro-developmental Disorders: Enhancing Everyday Life – Non Existent Therapeutic Services in Nigeria – let’s do something about it’ was written to enlighten people on the symptoms of selected neurodevelopmental disorders, and to encourage early clinical diagnosis and therapeutic interventions.

He said research reveals that mothers of children with developmental disabilities were at greater risk of more stress, psychological distress and poorer health than mothers of typically developing children.

Amaechi said there was absence of facilities to cater for children with Neurodevelopmental disabilities in the country , adding that this makes many families to hide such children.

He said: “The government needs to be ready to play its part in making treatments and training of these individuals easy for parents. With adequate supports from the government and by ensuring that children with this conditions have access to public health, education and support services, they will be able to do well within the society.”