Advancing Autism Awareness and Inclusion

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has announced the commencement of its 16th Annual Autism Conference, a flagship initiative designed to support individuals on the autism spectrum. The event is centered on the theme “Acceptance in Action: From Family to Classroom to Workplace to Public Spaces,” signaling a shift toward tangible societal integration and practical support.

The conference is scheduled to take place on July 27 and 28 at the Muson Centre in Lagos. According to GTCO, the 2026 Autism Programme is designed to move the conversation beyond simple awareness, focusing instead on making inclusion visible and effective across various sectors of society, including homes and workplaces.

Comprehensive Support and Expert Consultations

A critical component of the initiative is the provision of free one-on-one consultations for families, which will follow the two-day conference. These sessions are scheduled to take place from July 29 to August 1 at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja. These consultations provide families with direct access to specialists who can offer tailored guidance for developmental challenges.

The programme will feature expert-led discussions and workshops facilitated by local and international specialists in developmental and behavioural sciences. Key areas of focus include early intervention, behavioural therapy, communication strategies, inclusive education, and caregiver support, ensuring a holistic approach to autism management.

Institutional Commitment to Social Impact

Reflecting on the history of the initiative, the Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO, Mr. Segun Agbaje, noted that the programme was established 16 years ago to mitigate the isolation often experienced by families. He emphasized that the current theme challenges the public to move past good intentions and embrace active inclusion.

Sixteen years ago, we set out to help families navigate a journey that too often felt isolating. Today, this programme stands as proof of what sustained commitment can achieve.

— Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer, GTCO

No single institution can build an inclusive society alone. It takes families willing to advocate, educators willing to adapt, employers willing to open doors, and policymakers willing to act.

— Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer, GTCO

Regional Expansion and Advocacy

The GTCO Autism Programme will also extend its reach to Ghana, beginning with a workshop on August 4 at the University of Professional Studies, Accra. This will be followed by free consultations at the same venue from August 5 to 8, underscoring the organization's commitment to autism advocacy across the West African region.

Over the years, the programme has become a major platform for inclusion, bringing together healthcare professionals, therapists, educators, policymakers, and families. Interested members of the public can visit the programme’s official website for more information on the conference and the scheduled free consultations.