GTCO’s autism conference offers opportunities to empower autism spectrum community

Onome Amuge

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) is setting the stage for a game-changing conversation about inclusivity and self-advocacy with its upcoming 2024 Autism Conference, themed“A Spectrum of Possibilities”. As part of this event, the financial services group has planned a series of thought-provoking events aimed at celebrating the unique potential of individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and breaking down barriers to a more equitable, accepting society.

Building on its 14-year commitment to raising awareness and understanding about autism, GTCO is set to host its 2024 Autism Conference on July 15 and 16 at the Muson Centre in Lagos. The two-day event, themed “A Spectrum of Possibilities,” promises to be a landmark moment in the history of autism advocacy in Nigeria, offering not only a comprehensive main conference but also follow-up consultations and a free one-on-one clinic running from July 16 to 20 at the Chapel of Light in Alausa, Ikeja.

The autism conference will also extend to Ghana, with a workshop scheduled for July 23rd at the University of Professional Studies in Accra. Following the workshop, consultations will be offered from July 23rd to 27th at the same venue.

The financial services group highlighted the significant impact of its annual autism conference, which has now become a leading platform for autism advocacy and intervention in Africa. With a strong focus on supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, the conference has enabled the provision of support and empowerment to thousands of people with ASD. 

GTCO disclosed that this year’s autism conference is a collaborative effort with local and international specialists and organisations, aimed at providing an informative and interactive platform for individuals with ASD, their families, and professionals.

The conference will feature various activities, including lectures, panel discussions, and performances, designed to showcase the incredible talents of individuals on the autism spectrum while also facilitating connections and the exchange of ideas regarding autism spectrum disorder , including its causes, management, and support for those affected.

Speaking at a press conference to announce the 2024 edition of the annual autism awareness and support, Charles Eremi, the GTCO team lead for corporate communication, explained that the theme of the 2024 autism conference, “A Spectrum of Possibilities”, is closely aligned with the company’s core values of diversity, equity, and inclusion, which aim to create a society where everyone is respected and treated equally, regardless of their background or abilities.

Eremi stated: “GTCO autism programme has established itself as a beacon of hope and a reference point for autism advocacy and intervention in Africa.

“Over the years, the programme has made significant impacts, providing support and empowerment to thousands of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.

“In collaboration with specialists and partner-organisation from Nigeria and outside, the programme will feature lectures, panel discussions carefully prepared to showcase diverse talents.”

Okezusi Bolodeoku, an autism care specialist, expressed concern over the widespread lack of awareness, acceptance, and accommodation for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

According to Bolodeoku, ASD is not a disease but a unique neurological difference in a child’s brain, which can be managed effectively. 

Bolodeoku underscored the vital need for society to embrace acceptance and understanding for every child living with autism, debunking misconceptions and promoting awareness to foster a more compassionate and inclusive environment.

Also speaking at the press conference, Benedict Sama, a clinical psychologist, urged parents, professionals, teachers, and caregivers to attend the upcoming autism conference, stressing the critical importance of gaining knowledge, practical strategies, and awareness about managing autism.

Commenting on the 2024 autism conference, Segun Agbaje, group chief executive officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, stated that everyone has something to offer, and the company wants to help individuals with autism succeed and lead healthy, supportive lives. 

Agbaje believes  that by embracing autism as a strength, and not a weakness, individuals with ASD can be helped to find their passion, develop skills, and make meaningful impact in society.

“We are learning more about autism everyday, 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 possibl; by working together, we can build a society that values diversity, promotes inclusion, and empowers everyone to thrive,’’he added.

Autism Spectrum Disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by social communication and interaction difficulties, repetitive behaviors, and restricted language ability, has long been a source of misunderstanding and stigma worldwide.

As the World Health Organization (WHO) reports, individuals with autism often face co-occurring conditions, such as epilepsy, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In addition to these conditions, they may also experience challenging behaviors, including difficulty sleeping and self-injury.

According to the WHO, autism affects approximately one percent of the global child population, which amounts to an estimated 135 million individuals living with autism worldwide.

The findings published in the University of Lagos Journal of Clinical Science identified the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Nigeria, with approximately one in every 125 to 150 children affected. With this rate, the study estimates that approximately 600,000 Nigerian children are living with ASD.

Furthermore, the research underscored that ASD affects male children more frequently than female children, a trend seen worldwide. Additionally, it confirmed that ASD transcends social and economic boundaries, impacting children from all walks of life in Nigeria, regardless of their social status.

Autism in Nigeria remains a largely misunderstood and often overlooked health issue, with low awareness and insufficient resources for early diagnosis and management. However, GTCO has taken the lead in advocating for individuals with autism, championing initiatives that promote understanding and inclusivity for this community.

With the founding of the innovative Autism Conference, GTCO has positioned itself at the forefront of creating awareness and providing support for individuals with autism. Driven by the determination to address the unique developmental challenges faced by children on the autism spectrum, the Orange Ribbon Initiative has paved the way for an annual conference that has since become a flagship event, empowering those affected by these disorders while raising awareness about their prevalence and significance.