Historical Development of Special Education in Nigeria
Introduction.
Special education in Nigeria has undergone significant transformations over the years. From traditional
and informal practices to modern and inclusive approaches, the country has made considerable progress
in providing education for children with special needs. This essay traces the historical development of
special education in Nigeria, highlighting key milestones, policies, and reforms.
Pre-Colonial Era (Before 1914)
In the pre-colonial era, special education in Nigeria was largely informal and traditional. Children with
disabilities were often cared for by their families and communities, with some receiving traditional
healing and spiritual interventions.
Colonial Era (1914-1960)
During the colonial era, the British colonial government established the first special schools in Nigeria,
primarily for children with visual and hearing impairments. These schools were often run by missionaries
and focused on providing basic education and vocational training.
Post-Colonial Era (1960-1980)
After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, the government began to take a more active role in special
education. The Federal Government established the Special Education Division within the Ministry of
Education, which oversaw the development of special education programs and [Link] early
beginning of formal special education in Nigeria is intricately linked up with Advent and activities of the
early Christians missionaries such as CMS,The Wesleyans,[Link] Roman Catholic and the Seventh Day
Adventist Mission,The Reverend Brown of the Baptist Church and Oluoi of C.M.S, For examples, started
the first Educational program for the physically handicapped by founding the Irberekodo Leprosy
Settlement in Abeokuta and many others.
1980s-1990s: Expansion and Reform
In the 1980s and 1990s, special education in Nigeria underwent significant expansion and reform. The
government established new special schools and programs, including those for children with intellectual
disabilities, autism, and physical disabilities. The National Policy on Education (1981) also emphasized
the importance of special education and inclusive education.
2000s-Present: Inclusive Education and Reforms
In recent years, Nigeria has continued to reform and expand its special education system. The
government has emphasized the importance of inclusive education, with the goal of providing education
for all children, regardless of their abilities. The National Policy on Special Needs Education (2016)
provides a framework for special education in Nigeria, emphasizing inclusive education, accessibility,
and equity.
Some notable milestones in the development of special education in Nigeria include:
1. Establishment of the first special school for the blind in Lagos (1950)
2. Creation of the Special Education Division within the Ministry of Education (1960s)
3. Development of the National Policy on Education (1981)
4. Establishment of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE) to oversee special
education programs (1990s)
5. Launch of the National Policy on Special Needs Education (2016)
Conclusion
The historical development of special education in Nigeria reflects the country's commitment to
providing education for all children, regardless of their abilities. While significant progress has been
made, there is still much work to be done to ensure inclusive and equitable education for all children in
Nigeria.
References
1. Federal Republic of Nigeria. (1981). National Policy on Education.
2. Federal Republic of Nigeria. (2016). National Policy on Special Needs Education.
3. Obi, S. O. (2001). Special Education in Nigeria: Issues and Perspectives. Journal of Special Education,
35(1), 34-41.
4. Oyinloye, G. O. (2015). Inclusive Education in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects. Journal of Inclusive
Education, 19(1), 53-63.
[Link] Felix A (PH.D). in his study material (EDU 303): NOVEMBER [Link] 3-4
