L–R: Benedict O. Sama, Licensed Clinical Psychologist; Oyinade Adegite, Chief Communications Officer, GTCO Plc; Babajide Okuntola, Deputy Managing Director, GTBank; Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director, GTBank; Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer, GTCO Plc; Osezusi Bolodeoku, International Behaviour Analyst and Autism Advocate; and Camille Proctor, Autism Advocate, at the 16th GTCO Autism Conference held at the MUSON Centre, Lagos.
Abayomi Susan
Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) has renewed its commitment to supporting individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through free parent training, expert consultations, and increased awareness initiatives, as it successfully concluded the 16th edition of its annual Autism Conference.
The two-day event, held on July 27 and 28, 2026, at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, attracted hundreds of parents, caregivers, teachers, healthcare professionals, and autism advocates. Organised under GTCO’s Orange Ribbon Initiative, the conference was themed “Acceptance in Action.”
Over the years, the Orange Ribbon Initiative has grown from an awareness campaign into one of Nigeria’s foremost platforms for autism education, advocacy, and practical intervention, providing families with access to professional guidance and support services.
The conference featured interactive sessions led by autism specialists, therapists, and neurodevelopmental experts who addressed key issues surrounding early diagnosis, timely intervention, and the use of evidence-based therapies to improve developmental outcomes for children on the autism spectrum.
Among the professionals who shared their expertise were Dr. Eziafakaku Nwokolo, Cinzia Adanna Ebonine, Osezusi Bolodeoku, Solape Azazi, and Remi Olutimayin, alongside other experienced facilitators from Nigeria and beyond.
Drawing from their professional knowledge and personal experiences as mothers of children living with autism, the speakers emphasised the importance of empowering parents through education, continuous support, and access to reliable information.
They advised parents and caregivers to seek assistance from qualified and certified professionals who can provide appropriate assessments and interventions tailored to the unique developmental needs of children with autism.
Some parents shared personal experiences of their children’s journeys, recounting how developmental milestones appeared typical initially before autism-related signs became noticeable. They described the conference as a valuable platform for gaining deeper understanding, receiving professional guidance, and connecting with other families navigating similar experiences.
The experts stressed that children suspected of having Autism Spectrum Disorder require comprehensive diagnostic assessments before any intervention programme is introduced. They cautioned families against patronising unqualified practitioners offering uncertified treatment options, warning that inappropriate interventions could hinder a child’s progress.
As part of its support efforts, GTCO provided free parental training sessions aimed at helping families identify autism signs, understand available therapies, and adopt effective strategies for supporting children on the spectrum.
The facilitators noted that well-informed parents are better positioned to make informed decisions, provide effective support, and promote autism awareness within their communities.
The experts further commended GTCO’s annual autism conference for helping to change societal perceptions, reduce misinformation, and encourage greater acceptance and inclusion of individuals living with autism.
They explained that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that exists across a spectrum and should not be viewed through the lens of limitation. They called on schools, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders to strengthen inclusive education by equipping teachers with specialised training and creating supportive learning environments for children with autism.
Neuropsychiatric specialists also advised schools to ensure they have the necessary facilities, trained personnel, and professional capacity before enrolling children with special needs. They noted that inadequate support structures can create additional challenges for both children and their families.
Parents were encouraged to seek expert guidance before selecting educational institutions for their children, ensuring that schools are capable of providing essential services, including speech therapy, behavioural support, and psychological assistance.
Continuing its autism advocacy efforts, GTCO announced that free one-on-one consultation sessions would be available from July 29 to August 1, 2026, at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.
The consultation programme will provide parents and caregivers with personalised counselling, professional assessments, and practical recommendations tailored to their children’s specific needs, while promoting a culture of acceptance, inclusion, and greater awareness of autism within society.
