About

Lami Tinam Gidado is a pioneering figure in the field of therapeutic play in Nigeria, and the President, Association of Play Therapy Nigeria (APTN). With a background in International Law and a career that transitioned organically into early childhood development, she brings a rare and enriching cross-disciplinary perspective. Her interest in the cross-cultural dimensions of play, especially in Nigeria and the UK, is both deeply personal and academically rigorous.

She is the Founder and Director of Treasure Box Early Years Centre and currently serves as the President of the Association of Play Therapy Nigeria. Lami is also a certified Therapeutic Play Practitioner, trained in integrative and synergetic approaches from globally respected trainers such as Dr. Janet Courtney and Lisa Dion.

Lami’s leadership is evident in her work with the Clinton Health Access Initiative on the LEGO-funded Build a World of Play Project, and her keynote addresses at national education conferences. Her vision is clear: to integrate therapeutic play into healthcare, education, and community systems across Nigeria.

When she’s not training therapists or developing trauma counselling manuals, you’ll find her practicing creative visualisation, leading a couples book club, or studying for her master's in marriage and family therapy.