Dr. Oluwasola Oke, a Consultant Paediatric Neurologist at Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH), Ile Ife, has called on the Federal Government to include treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), citing the high cost and limited accessibility of necessary medications.
Speaking to journalists in Ilorin on Thursday, Dr. Oke described ADHD as one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders affecting children, marked by symptoms such as inattention, short attention span, restlessness, difficulty staying on task, and hyperactivity.
“The cost of managing ADHD is astronomical,” he said, noting that a sachet of 10 tablets now sells for as much as N50,000 and is largely inaccessible to average Nigerians. “The drugs are scarce and mainly available in upscale areas like Lagos or abroad,” he added.
Dr. Oke, who also lectures at the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, revealed that Nigeria’s ADHD prevalence among children ranges from 4.6% to 8.7%, while the rate in Africa is between 5.4% and 8.7%. Globally, the prevalence is estimated at 5% to 10%.
He emphasized the urgent need for public education on ADHD, noting that many still wrongly label affected children as stubborn, mentally unstable, or spiritually afflicted. “Beating such a child or subjecting them to endless deliverance sessions will not solve the problem. What they need is professional care,” he stated.
Dr. Oke urged the government to subsidise ADHD medication through the NHIS and create policies to ensure better access to care. He also called on caregivers and teachers to provide children with ADHD the right support, understanding, and a conducive learning environment.
“Some of these children are highly intelligent and can excel in areas like music, art, or mathematics,” he said. “We must stop the stigma and instead show them love and patience. With the right intervention, they can live productive lives.”
