By Ayomide Ototoju
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has announced plans to host the 15th edition of its annual Autism Conference from July 15 to 16, 2025, at the Muson Centre in Lagos. This year’s conference, themed “From Awareness to Action: 15 Years of Advancing Autism Inclusion,” will highlight the journey from advocacy to impactful change in the lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Details of the upcoming event were unveiled at a media briefing held at GTCO’s Head Office on Akin Adesola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. The conference will be followed by specialist consultations scheduled for July 17 to 19 at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.
In his welcome address, Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Segun Agbaje, reflected on the origins of GTCO’s Orange Ribbon Initiative, which began in 2009 as a commitment to children with neurodevelopmental disorders and the families who care for them. He reaffirmed the organisation’s dedication to early intervention and inclusive support systems.
“For 15 years, our Autism programme has advocated for a future where every child is given the opportunity to thrive. This year’s theme challenges us to deepen our understanding, push for better systems, and ensure that individuals on the autism spectrum are not just supported, but empowered, included, and celebrated,” Agbaje stated.
He emphasised that the 15th anniversary is not only a milestone but also a reaffirmation of GTCO’s ongoing responsibility to drive inclusion and create everyday opportunities for all.
The conference will feature lectures, panel discussions, and performances highlighting the talents of individuals within the autism community. Among the keynote facilitators are:
Oyeyemi Patricia Adako – Autism advocate and internationally published researcher
Lanre Duyile – Board Certified Behaviour Analyst and Founder, Behaviourise Int., Canada
Benedict O. Sama – Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Behaviour Analyst
Camille Proctor – Executive Director and Founder of The Color of Autism Foundation, USA
Osezusi Bolodeoku – International Behavior Analyst and Qualified Autism Services Practitioner
GTCO remains one of Nigeria’s leading institutions in championing neurodiversity, using education, awareness, and empowerment to break barriers and promote inclusive development.
