First Lady, Women Affairs Minister champion autism inclusion

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, and the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, have issued powerful messages on World Autism Awareness Day, urging greater understanding, inclusion and support for individuals on the autism spectrum under the theme “Autism and Humanity: Every Life Has Value”.

Mrs Tinubu affirmed the dignity and potential of those living with autism, emphasising their vital role in society. “Today, on World Autism Awareness Day 2026, I join all Nigerians and the global community in affirming the dignity, worth, and limitless potential of every person living with autism,” she stated.

She called for combating misinformation and building a society that upholds equal rights for all, adding, “Let us all continue to build a society that recognises the inherent dignity, equal rights, and unconditional value of every individual.”

In her press statement, Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted autism as a pressing public health issue, noting global estimates of one in 100 children affected and rising prevalence in Nigeria due to limited awareness and services. She stressed the heavy burden on women and girls, who provide over 70 per cent of unpaid caregiving, linking it to gender inequality and economic challenges.

The Minister outlined key initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including the nine-pillar Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention (RHSII-774). Priorities include revising the National Child Policy, developing community-based care services, advocating for care economy investments, creating nutrition guidelines with a new Department of Nutrition, and scaling nutrient-dense foods like Tom Brown through community hubs.

“Investing in the care economy is not only a social obligation but also an economic imperative. By supporting caregivers through social protection, access to services, skills development, and respite care, we unlock productivity, improve family well-being, and promote inclusive growth,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said. She urged stakeholders to reduce stigma, expand access and prioritise care infrastructure.

Both leaders extended solidarity to those affected, with the Minister concluding, “Together, let us build a Nigeria where every life is valued, where care is recognised and supported, and where inclusion is not aspirational but institutionalised.”