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Children with special needs in Benue State now have access to dedicated, multidisciplinary care following the launch of a groundbreaking Therapeutic Centre at Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), described as the first hospital-based facility of its kind in Nigeria.
Initiated by Dr. Terungwa Stephen Hwande, Chief Medical Director of BSUTH, the centre officially opened in May 2025 to provide comprehensive support for children living with developmental challenges such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and related conditions. The facility integrates medical, therapeutic, educational, and nutritional interventions to address the holistic needs of affected children and their families.
Services at the centre include speech therapy, behavioural therapy, physiotherapy, educational interventions, diet and nutrition support, and individualized care plans delivered by a team of specialized teachers, therapists, and medical professionals. Led by Prof. Chris Vande, the multidisciplinary approach aims to unlock each child’s unique potential and foster meaningful development.
Historically, many children with these conditions in Nigeria have faced stigma, neglect, limited educational access, and social exclusion, often due to cultural misconceptions that lead families to hide affected children from schools and communities. The new centre seeks to change this narrative by offering professional, compassionate care in a hospital setting and promoting greater awareness and inclusion.
Parents and guardians have already reported noticeable improvements in their children’s communication, behaviour, motor skills, and overall well-being, describing the facility as a source of renewed hope. Dr. Hwande emphasized the importance of early intervention and ongoing support, stating: “Children with developmental challenges have unique talents. With proper care and support, they can make valuable contributions to society.”
He called for partnerships with organizations, philanthropists, and well-meaning individuals to expand services, reach more children, and sustain the centre’s operations. Parents are encouraged to register their children at BSUTH to benefit from the comprehensive therapeutic programs.
The establishment of the centre marks a significant step forward in addressing the long-standing gap in specialized care for children with special needs in Benue State and Nigeria at large, offering families a structured pathway toward improved quality of life and greater societal inclusion.
