Autism not caused by poor parenting or GMOs, experts tell Abuja awareness walk

Experts have urged Nigerians to stop blaming parents for their children's autism, saying the condition is not caused by the way a child is raised or by eating genetically modified foods.

They spoke on Saturday in Abuja at an autism awareness engagement and walk organised by the Mindful Bridges Foundation, which works to correct myths about the condition and push for acceptance of autistic people.

The foundation's founder, Rosemary Mbanefo, said a widespread belief that autism comes from bad parenting has left many families carrying blame and stigma they do not deserve.

"Autism is not caused by poor parenting," she said, adding that any family can have an autistic child and that it is not a sign of parental failure, poor discipline or a curse.

She called on Nigerians to replace blame with understanding and support for affected children and their families.

According to the World Health Organisation, autism is a diverse group of conditions linked to brain development. It can affect how people communicate and interact socially, and may come with restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour and interests.

The WHO describes it as a spectrum because autistic people have different strengths, challenges and support needs. Some need substantial help with daily living, while others can live independently with the right support.

What science says about GMOs

A scientist at the event, Amarachi Onyebuchi, also dismissed claims that genetically modified organisms cause autism, saying there is no established scientific evidence for that.

She said autism is linked to genetics and how the brain develops. Asked whether GMOs cause autism, she said, "Scientifically, I would say no."

She added that what people eat matters for general human development, but that the main scientific explanation for autism is a genetic issue.

The WHO's position is broader. It says autism cannot be pinned on a single genetic defect, describing it instead as a complex condition shaped by multiple genetic and developmental factors, with research still ongoing.

The gap matters for Nigerian families, because misinformation can delay parents from getting their children assessed and supported early.

Skills training gives parents hope

Ginikachi Duruaku, who teaches fashion and creative skills at the foundation, said working with autistic children for the first time changed her mind about what they can learn.

She said some children need an instruction repeated many times before they master a task, but that with patience they do get there.

"There is actually hope. There is very, very big hope," she said, urging parents to seek opportunities for their children rather than treat a diagnosis as the end of the road.

She said some autistic children are very intelligent and read well, and that society should recognise their individual differences and create room for them to learn and take part.

The experts called for sustained public education and more chances for autistic people to build practical skills and reach their potential.