GTCO CEO calls for increased advocacy for autism inclusivity

The Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), Mr Segun Agbaje, has emphasised the need for increased advocacy to promote inclusivity and empowerment for persons with autism.

Speaking yesterday at a media briefing for the 14th Annual Autism Conference in Lagos, Agbaje stressed that every child has something special to offer and individuals with autism should be supported to succeed and live healthy.

“By embracing autism as a strength and not a weakness, we can help individuals with autism to find their passions, develop skills and make meaningful impacts on society,” Agbaje said.

“We are learning more about autism every day, and we are dedicated to using that knowledge to make a positive difference. We believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life, and we are committed to making that possible by working together and building a society that values diversity, promotes inclusion and empowers everyone to thrive.”

The conference, themed “A Spectrum of Possibilities,” will hold on July 15 and 16 at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, with free online clinic consultations from July 16 to 20. GTCO’s Corporate Communication Team Lead, Mr Charles Eremi, noted that the conference aligns with the company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has established itself as a beacon of hope for autism advocacy and intervention in Africa.

Okezusi Bolodeoku, a specialist in autism care, emphasised the need for acceptance of every child living with autism, stating that autism spectrum disorder is not a disease but a difference in a child’s brain that can be managed.

Also, Clinical psychologist Benedict Sama stressed the importance of information, strategies, and awareness for managing autism for parents, professionals, teachers, and caregivers.