Systemic Review of the Prevalence of Speech and Language Disorders in Nigeria
Nellyzita Nwosu

Abstract
There is a paucity of research on the prevalence of speech and language disorders in Nigeria. Results of the few studies that have investigated the prevalence of speech and language disorders in Nigeria reveal the prevalence of speech impairment to be 8-30% of individuals in Nigeria who present with communication deficits. Limitations in the prevalence studies that have been conducted in Nigeria are that 1) the studies were conducted on individuals who have been identified as having communication deficits or who have expressed concerns with their communication skills, 2) most of the prevalence studies in Nigeria provide reports on speech and hearing disorders with less information on language disorders, and 3) many of the evaluators were either audiologists, doctors or other professionals who were not trained to diagnose speech and language disorders. Prevalence studies that compare the number of individuals with speech and language disorders with the total population within an area are needed. The finding of the studies can provide information as to address the percentage of the population that may benefit from speech and language services.

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