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Lagos, Nigeria — In its continued commitment to promoting autism inclusion, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) has celebrated 15 years of impactful advocacy through its annual autism program, themed “From Awareness to Action.” The 2025 edition featured a compelling lineup of voices championing neurodiversity and called for practical steps to improve inclusion in homes, schools, workplaces, and society at large.

Speaking at the conference, Mrs. Solape Azazi, a passionate autism advocate and mother, emphasized that true inclusion begins at home. Sharing her personal experience, she said:

“That is the full power of inclusion. In my house, we don’t just talk about inclusion — we live it. I don’t segregate. I don’t say this child is autistic and cannot do something. If your hands work, your legs work, and you’re capable, then you will do the job. Except when I know it’s beyond your ability, then I step in.
We have an open communication system at home. My younger son understands his brother’s needs, his dad’s needs, and his own. He also knows how best to support his brother.”

When asked how families from lower socioeconomic backgrounds can access the same level of support and success — given that her autistic son created and sold 20 pieces of artwork — Mrs. Azazi explained that her advocacy now targets those at the grassroots level.

“That’s exactly why I’m shifting to grassroots advocacy. Most of my recent presentations have focused on what needs to be done at that level. I’m no longer just speaking for my child — I’m now speaking for many children on the spectrum who don’t have a voice. This is bigger than me.”

The event also featured remarks from Professor Moshood Bello Majeed, a woman who is a professor of psychiatry and public health, child and adolescent psychiatrist, and a specialist in special education needs. She highlighted the importance of moving from passive awareness to meaningful, structured action.

“The message of this conference is clear: autism is not just one person’s burden — it is everyone’s responsibility. Awareness is only the beginning. We must know the facts, understand the needs, and take deliberate steps to include individuals with autism in our communities.
Many people say they would accept individuals with disabilities, but when faced with the reality — especially when it comes to those with severe behavioral or sensory issues — they keep their distance. Parents are often left to deal with stigma and financial pressure alone.
Inclusion must be backed with action. In schools, it’s not enough to admit autistic children without providing the right support. Teachers must be trained, facilities must be adapted, and schools must work with therapists to create genuinely inclusive environments.
As these children grow, we must also prepare them for independent living. This includes offering job readiness training, assessments, and building systems that match their strengths. The goal is for them to live with dignity, contribute economically, and feel valued in society.”

When asked about her advice for today’s youth, Professor Bello Majeed urged them to be more accepting and empathetic:

“The youth are part of the larger community. They must understand that not everyone is the same — just like all fingers aren’t equal. Their role is to embrace these differences, help others feel included, and never stigmatize.”

As GTCO celebrates 15 years of dedicated autism advocacy, this year’s message resonates deeply: awareness alone is not enough — inclusion requires deliberate, sustained action from all sectors of society.