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Autism awareness has come a long way in recent years, but there’s still much work to be done. As nations strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society, it’s essential to recognise the unique challenges and opportunities that individuals with autism bring to the table. By promoting acceptance, understanding, and support, we can empower individuals with autism to reach their full potential and live fulfilling lives.
In Nigeria, a country with a growing population of individuals with autism, there is a pressing need for advocacy, support, and empowerment. Organisations and individuals are working tirelessly to promote autism awareness and provide resources for individuals with autism and their families. Their efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of many, and their dedication is an inspiration to us all.
As we mark important milestones in the journey towards autism inclusion, it’s essential to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the challenges that lie ahead. By sharing stories, experiences, and best practices, we can learn from each other and work together to create a more supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with autism.
In a world where every individual deserves to thrive, it’s crucial that we prioritize autism inclusion and support. By doing so, we can unlock the full potential of individuals with autism and create a more compassionate and understanding society. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for individuals with autism and their families.
For 15 years, the Guaranty Trust Annual Autism Conference has been a leading platform for autism advocacy and intervention in Africa, delivering support and empowerment to thousands of individuals with neurodevelopmental differences.
In a press conference at its head office in Lagos, Oyinade Adegite, Chief Communication Officer, GTCO Plc, said the Orange Ribbon Initiative began in 2009 as GTCO’s commitment to advocate for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and to support the families and caregivers who nurture them.
Adegite said what started as a simple but focused effort has grown to shape our Nigerian advocate, listen and respond.
She explained that GTCO has, over the years, sustained a foundation upon which the autism programme is built, one that champions acceptance, encourages early intervention, and advocates for a future where every child is given the opportunity to thrive.
Segun Agbaje, the Group CEO, in a statement, said that now in its 15 years, GTCO autism programme remains committed to advocacy, support and empowerment of children and adults living with autism spectrum disorder.
According to Agbaje, GTCO has built a space for dialogue, learning and transformation, not just for the autism community but for everyone working towards a more compassionate world.
This year’s theme, ‘From Awareness to Action: 15 Years of Advancing Autism Inclusion,’ reinforces the bank’s longstanding commitment to autism advocacy, highlighting the need to move beyond awareness and drive lasting, inclusive change.
Adegite said the theme challenges people to deepen their understanding, push for better systems and ensure that individuals on the autism spectrum are not just supported but empowered, included and celebrated.
Agbaje, in his statement, said the 15th-year milestone is the reaffirmation of the bank’s commitment, a reminder that inclusion and acceptance are a responsibility and that progress is measured not only by policies and programmes but by the everyday opportunity created for every child and every individual.
The conference will hold on the 15th and 16th of July at the Muson Centre, Lagos, Nigeria. A free one-on-one consultation clinic will be held from July 17th to 19th, 2025.
The conference will also hold in Ghana on the 21st of July, 2025 and a free one-on-one consultation clinic: July 22nd to 24th, 2025.
