In some homes and schools in Nigeria, children struggling to read, sit still, or pass exams can be dismissed as “lazy,” “stubborn,” or under a spiritual attack.  Seeking professional help, sometimes takes a backseat as families may turn to prayer houses, deliverance sessions, or harsh discipline—fueled by cultural myths and religious misinterpretations for a solution to the perceived problem.

However, sometimes, these children are neither stubborn or possessed— they may have undiagnosed learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, or dyscalculia?

This brief write up explores how faith and cultural beliefs influence how some Nigerians view learning disabilities and why we must rewrite the narrative for the sake of our children.

What Is Learning Disability?

A learning disability is a neurological difference that affects how a person processes information. It is not caused by lack of intelligence, laziness, or poor upbringing. Common examples include:

• Dyslexia: Difficulty reading, spelling, and understanding text

• ADHD: Trouble focusing, staying still, or following instructions

• Dyscalculia: Struggles with numbers, calculations, and basic math

• Auditory Processing Disorder: Difficulty understanding spoken words, especially in noisy environments

These conditions are manageable with the right support, but early identification is helpful.

Cultural Misconceptions About Learning Disabilities in Nigeria

1. “It’s a spiritual attack”

Some Parents, especially in religious communities, associate learning difficulties with spiritual warfare or generational curses. In such cases children are taken to prayer camps rather than professionally trained therapists.

Why this is harmful:

• It may delay proper diagnosis and intervention

• May expose the child to trauma or abuse where harmful, dangerous or unorthodox methods are deployed in seeking healing

• It may reinforce the notion of shame and stigma

2. “He’s just stubborn and doesn’t want to learn”

In cultures that emphasize obedience and respect, a child who doesn’t conform to classroom expectations can be seen as rebellious. Children with ADHD or dyslexia often appear distracted or noncompliant—not because they’re stubborn, but because they genuinely struggle to keep up.

3. “She’s just dull”

Labeling a child as “dull” damages their self-esteem and creates a cycle of failure. Some children who might otherwise be classified as ‘intelligent’ are stuck in this label due to undiagnosed disabilities.

4. “They will outgrow it”

While some developmental delays can improve over time, learning disabilities don’t go away on their own. They require structured support, not just waiting and wishing.

The Role of Faith: A Double-Edged Sword

Religion is a major part of life in Nigeria, and it can be both a source of hope and a barrier to progress when misunderstood.

The Good:

• Churches and mosques are beginning to embrace awareness campaigns

• Faith-based schools are slowly adopting inclusive education models

• Religious leaders can help shape understanding if properly educated

The Challenge:

• Some Imams and Preachers still teach that disabilities are punishments or curses

• They advocate deliverance sessions rather than medical or psychological assessments which may not always be successful and may leave the child worse off than when he/she began due to endured trauma or stigma

• Families may feel shame for “not praying enough” instead of seeking other help

Bridging the Gap: How to honour faith while embracing fact

Faith and science don’t have to contradict each other. In fact, they can work together to bring healing and support to families.

Here’s how:

1. Educate Religious Leaders

Partner with churches, mosques, and spiritual leaders to teach the signs of learning disabilities. Empower them to guide families towards professional support alongside prayer, not in place of it.

2. Encourage all schools including faith-based schools to train their staff

Incorporate special education awareness into teacher training programs. Teach staff how to spot early warning signs and refer students for assessment.

3. Talk Openly in Religious Communities

Create safe spaces in churches and mosques for parents to share their experiences without shame. Invite professionals to speak during youth and parenting programs.

Stories That Break the Stigma

Tola’s Story – From “Spiritually Attacked” to Supported

Tola was 9 when her parents took her from one prayer house to another because she couldn’t read or spell. A neighbor eventually suggested getting her tested. She was diagnosed with dyslexia. With the right support, Tola now reads confidently and even writes poetry.

Emeka’s Story – The Teacher Who Made the Difference

Emeka’s Sunday school teacher noticed he couldn’t sit still or follow instructions. Instead of scolding him, she suggested an ADHD screening. Emeka was referred to a therapist and began behavioral intervention. Today, he’s thriving in school.

These are real short stories that show the power of early recognition and compassionate intervention.

What Parents Can Do

1. Learn the Signs

If your child consistently struggles in reading, writing, math, or focus despite effort, it’s time to explore deeper.

2. Don’t Be Ashamed

A learning disability doesn’t make your child less valuable. It just means they need a different learning path.

3. Combine Faith with Action

Pray, and also get assessments, talk to teachers, and seek help from support centers or professionals.

4. Join Support Communities

There are growing Nigerian communities—on WhatsApp and Facebook—where parents share advice and resources.

Where to Get Help in Nigeria

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Here are some places to start:

• Dyslexia Foundation Nigeria – Free resources and screenings

• Patrick Speech and Language Centre, Lagos – Speech therapy and learning support

• Brace Foundation for Children

• The Zamarr Institute – Learning disabilities and behavioral therapy

• Online Help – Mindsight NG, TalkToMe Therapies, and Edupod offer virtual assessments and coaching

Final Thoughts: Time to Change the Narrative

Learning disabilities should not be viewed as a result of weak faith, bad parenting, or spiritual attack. They are biological conditions that need real, professional support.

Effort to shift the mindset of labeling children and rather get help for them. When faith, culture, and knowledge come together, children can finally get the understanding and help they need to thrive.