Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc is set to hold the 15th edition of the GTCO Autism Conference advocating for a national shift from mere awareness to deliberate and inclusive action for individuals living with autism spectrum disorder.
Segun Agbaje, Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, delivering remarks at a press conference to herald the 15th edition of the GTCO Autism Conference, said the event themed ‘From Awareness to Action: 15 Years of Advancing Autism Inclusion’ reflected the bank’s long-standing commitment to creating impactful support systems through its Orange Ribbon Initiative.
Agbaje said, “What started as a simple but focused effort has grown to shape how we advocate, how we listen, and how we respond. This is the 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.”
He stressed that inclusion and support for people living with autism should not be limited to policies or special events, noting, “This 15th-year milestone is a reaffirmation of our commitment; a reminder that inclusion and acceptance is a responsibility, and that progress is measured not only by policies and programmes but by the everyday opportunities we create for every child and individual.”
The GTCO Autism Programme includes an annual conference, free one-on-one consultations with international and local autism specialists, panel discussions, and training sessions for caregivers, educators, and healthcare workers.
Agbaje added that while individuals with autism may face difficulties in communication and social interaction, many also possess exceptional abilities. He said, “We are motivated by these observations to assist with their challenges while fostering their creative talents and other aspirations.”
Agbaje also commended the local and international partners who have supported the initiative. These include Autism Compassion Africa (Ghana), Behaviorprise Consulting (Canada), and The Colour of Autism Foundation (USA), as well as Yaba and Aro Neuropsychiatric Hospitals in Nigeria.
“The Orange Ribbon Initiative could not support persons on the autism spectrum and their families without the continuing collaborative efforts of many individuals and organisations involved in making the GTCO Autism Conference a success each year,” he said.
This year’s conference will be held from July 15 to 19, 2025, across two venues in Lagos Island and Ikeja. The programme will feature consultations, capacity-building sessions, and community engagement activities designed to promote early diagnosis, inclusive education, and long-term support for people living with autism across Nigeria and beyond.
A few of the expected speakers at the conference include Lanre Futile, Georgian Koyama, Dr. Bernadette Kilo, Solape Azazi, Carmella Hay, and others.
