The Learning Place Centre and other autism support centres have called on government to ensure proper implementation of policies that support children with autism and other developmental disorders.

The call was made during the third annual Lagos Autism Awareness Walk held in Lagos at the weekend.

Speaking at the event, Executive Director of The Learning Place Centre, Bolanle Adewole, said although government had shown support, there was a need for stronger policies that are properly implemented for children with special needs.

She noted that policies already exist but what is needed is proper execution and monitoring to ensure they work for individuals living with autism.

Adewole called for policies that would promote workplace inclusion, explaining that organisations should be encouraged to employ individuals living with autism that such opportunities would help them become independent and show their abilities rather than being judged by stigma or perceived limitations.

Adewole also urged schools to admit more children with special needs, stressing that teachers must be trained to support them so that the children can thrive in the classroom.

Founder of Cradlelounge Special Needs Initiative, Solape Azazi, said awareness about autism has increased in recent years as more parents and organisations are speaking up, however, acceptance and structured support is still limited.

Azazi said there is a need for policies that go beyond paper, including inclusive education laws, insurance coverage for therapy and protection against discrimination.

She added that therapy and specialised education remain expensive, making it difficult for many families to access the services their children need.

Azazi urged government to provide subsidies and funding programmes to make early intervention services more accessible.

On her part, General Manager, Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, emphasised the importance of inclusion and collaboration among organisations working in the disability space.

Oyetunde-Lawal commended the centres that came together to organise the walk, noting that collaboration in the disability sector is often difficult but necessary to promote awareness and advocacy.

She added that continued advocacy and awareness would help change perceptions and improve the lives of persons living with autism in Lagos State.s