Tobore Oborevwori Leads Autism Awareness Drive, Calls For Inclusion
Delta First Lady Marks Autism Awareness Day With Advocacy, Outreach
AS the world commemorated World Autism Awareness Day, the Wife of the Delta State Governor, Tobore Oborevwori, led a renewed call for compassion, acceptance, and sustained support for individuals living with autism.
The 2026 observance, themed “Autism with Humanity: Every Life Has Value,” brought together stakeholders, caregivers, educators, and entertainers in Asaba to promote inclusion and awareness.
Celebrity Participation Amplifies Message
The day’s activities kicked off with a symbolic 4km awareness walk from Temple Clinic Junction to Government House.
Among those who joined the First Lady were popular figures such as Harrysong and Nollywood veteran Patience Ozokwor, whose participation drew significant public attention to the cause.
Breaking Myths, Promoting Understanding
Addressing participants, Oborevwori challenged persistent misconceptions surrounding autism, stressing that it should not be viewed through a spiritual lens or as a limitation.
Instead, she described it as a developmental condition that requires early diagnosis, structured support, and empathy.
She noted that many families still struggle with stigma, limited access to quality education, and inadequate healthcare services.
“True progress lies in creating systems that support these children and allow them to express themselves fully,” she said.
Expanding Support Systems
Through her You Matter Charity Foundation, the First Lady said efforts have been intensified to reach underserved communities.
These include awareness campaigns, medical outreach programmes, and provision of assistive learning tools aimed at improving the quality of life for children with autism.
She encouraged continued collaboration among government agencies, private organisations, and families.
Voices From Stakeholders
Education Commissioner Kingsley Ashibogwu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusive education, revealing plans to adapt the national curriculum to better cater to children with special needs.
Teachers, caregivers, and parents who spoke at the event emphasized the importance of acceptance at home and in society, noting that encouragement and patience are key to helping children reach their full potential.
Showcasing Abilities, Inspiring Hope
The event also celebrated the abilities of children living with autism through performances and presentations that highlighted their creativity and resilience.
In addition, selected individuals were inducted as autism awareness ambassadors, while learning aids—including Android tablets and educational toys—were distributed to participants.
The First Lady concluded with a call for collective responsibility, urging society to move beyond awareness and take concrete steps toward building an inclusive future for all.
