Susan Abayomi
The Nigerian Institute for Behavioural Science, Education and Care Professionals (NIsBEC) has officially commenced operations in Lagos, marking a significant step towards strengthening professional standards, certification and ethical practice in behavioural science, special education and allied care services in Nigeria.
The institute was established to promote competence, transparency, professional development, public awareness and evidence-based practice among practitioners working with individuals with developmental disabilities, learning difficulties and other special educational needs.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, a member of NIsBEC’s Board of Directors and Trustees, Dr Eziafakaku Nwokolo, said the institute would serve as a platform for innovation, research, professional development and knowledge exchange.
Nwokolo said the organisation aims to empower practitioners, influence policy and contribute to the transformation of behavioural science, special education and care services across Nigeria.
Another board member, Mrs Daisy Jonathan, highlighted the importance of certification and stronger professional standards in the sector. She said NIsBEC provides certification pathways covering behavioural science, special education, allied health and care, with different levels for paraprofessional, professional and advanced professional practice.
According to the institute, its certification system places emphasis on professional competence, integrity, respect, informed consent, confidentiality, safeguarding, collaboration and person-centred practice.
Certified practitioners will also be listed on the NIsBEC Certificant Registry, allowing employers, organisations and families to verify their professional status.
NIsBEC said the move is particularly important as many Nigerians living with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, learning difficulties and other special educational needs rely on trained professionals and paraprofessionals for education, therapy, behavioural intervention and daily support.
The institute also plans to support research and advocacy, while building partnerships with schools, hospitals, universities and care organisations. Community workshops, outreach programmes and awareness campaigns are also expected to form part of its efforts to expand access to quality services across the country.
With its operations now underway, NIsBEC said it remains committed to promoting higher standards, ethical conduct and evidence-based practice while maintaining a registry of qualified professionals providing behavioural, special education and allied care services in Nigeria.
