The main aim of IFA is to promote Autism awareness in Nigeria while at the same time providing a variety of needed services to address the challenges facing persons living with autism and their families. Autism is a neurological disorder that shows up in the first few years of life with no known causes. Autism is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and repetitive behaviours. Autism can be associated with learning disability and difficulties in motor coordination.
Main symptoms of ASD include:
• Delayed speech or speech
• Odd sounds/facial expression
• Aggressive behaviour with frequent tantrums
• Head banging and self-inflicted injuries
• Lack of eye contact
