Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu Rally for Autism Inclusion and Equal Rights on World Awareness Day
In a powerful display of solidarity, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has urged Nigerians to champion inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunities for individuals living with autism as the world commemorates the 2026 World Autism Awareness Day. Her message, delivered yesterday, aligns with this year's theme, "Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value," and underscores a global commitment to affirming the worth and potential of autistic persons.
First Lady's Call for Awareness and Acceptance
Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that people with autism are integral members of society, enriching communities and strengthening collective futures through their lives, voices, and contributions. She cautioned against misinformation and negative narratives surrounding autism, advocating for greater awareness and acceptance to foster a more inclusive environment.
"Today, on World Autism Awareness Day 2026, I join all Nigerians and the global community in affirming the dignity, worth, and limitless potential of every person living with autism," Tinubu stated. She highlighted the importance of recognising autistic individuals as vital parts of our shared humanity, urging a shift in societal perceptions.
Sanwo-Olu's Substantial Donation and Advocacy Efforts
Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu marked the occasion by donating N200 million to bolster autism advocacy and inclusion. The funds are allocated as follows:
- N100 million to support 20 autism athletes under the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA).
- N100 million pledged to the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Foundation to strengthen institutional support for autism advocacy.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made these donations yesterday, celebrating the achievements of 16-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a young Nigerian autism advocate certified by Guinness World Records as the youngest person to cycle 100 miles for 117 days from Enugu to Lagos. Sanwo-Olu noted that Tagbo-Okeke's feat, accomplished on last year's World Autism Awareness Day, sends a powerful global message about the value and potential of individuals on the autism spectrum.
Inspiring Advocacy and Growing Awareness
Sanwo-Olu reflected on how Tagbo-Okeke's journey has transcended record-setting, sparking a national movement that has increased awareness and acceptance of autism across Nigeria. He emphasized that awareness remains a critical tool in addressing autism, stressing the need for continuous support, care, and encouragement for affected individuals. The governor commended Tagbo-Okeke for transforming awareness into action and lauded the support system behind him, particularly his mother, Silvia Tagbo-Okeke, whom he described as the driving force behind his success.
Additionally, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Foundation's role in expanding autism care and professional capacity, including training caregivers and promoting inclusive development. He urged stakeholders to continue supporting initiatives that enhance awareness, build capacity, and provide opportunities for individuals living with autism, reiterating that every life has value.
Community Support and Optimistic Outlook
Tagbo Okeke, father of the autistic advocate, expressed optimism over the growing awareness and inclusion for persons with autism in Nigeria, noting that societal attitudes are gradually improving. He commended Sanwo-Olu for prioritizing autism awareness, viewing the governor's commitment as a sign of stronger institutional support. Okeke urged society to embrace inclusion and support systems that empower children with special needs to thrive.
The Isama Ajie of Asaba, Chuck Nduka-Eze, described Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke as a natural treasure, highlighting his achievement of two Guinness World Records within a year despite being born with autism. Nduka-Eze noted that this accomplishment challenges parents of autistic children and Nigerians at large to aim higher. He urged support for Kanyeyachukwu's initiative to train 1,000 autism caregivers as a first step toward broader inclusion and advocacy.
