Onyekesi Leads Autism Inclusion Drive in Anambra, Says Acceptance Must Go Beyond Awareness
Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Esther Onyekesi, has called for greater awareness, acceptance and inclusion of persons with autism, stressing that society must move beyond mere awareness to practical action.
Onyekesi made the call on Saturday at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka, during an autism awareness programme organised by the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare with the theme, “Promoting Awareness, Acceptance and Inclusion.”
The programme, which brought together government officials, advocates, parents, caregivers and members of the public, was aimed at deepening understanding of autism, celebrating the unique abilities of persons with autism and promoting an inclusive society where they can participate meaningfully.
Speaking at the event, Onyekesi said genuine inclusion begins with understanding and acceptance, noting that the ministry remained committed to protecting the welfare, dignity and rights of vulnerable persons in the state.
She said, “We must recognise their abilities, uphold their rights and create opportunities for them to thrive. Support for families and caregivers is also critical to ensuring that persons with autism develop their potential and contribute to their communities.”
The commissioner called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, families, schools, healthcare providers and civil society organisations to address the challenges faced by persons with autism and their caregivers.
The Chairman of the occasion and Mayor of Idemili North Local Government Area, Hon. Stanley Nkwoka Chigbo, said every person has unique abilities and talents, adding that autism should never be a reason for discrimination or exclusion.
Nkwoka said, “Today reminds us that every person has unique abilities, talents and potential. Autism should never be a reason for discrimination, isolation or exclusion. Instead, we must create an environment where persons with autism are understood, supported, respected and given the opportunity to thrive.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that promote social welfare and inclusion at the grassroots, and commended Onyekesi and the wife of the governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, for championing the welfare of vulnerable persons.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, Anambra State chapter, Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, said persons with autism are differently able, not less human.
Okeke urged society to see the person beyond the diagnosis, noting that stigma remains the greatest barrier facing persons with autism.
The wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Nonye Soludo, was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, who conveyed her goodwill message and support for the inclusion drive.
The programme ended with a call on stakeholders to embrace the message, “Different Abilities, Same Value, Equal Rights,” and translate awareness into acceptance, inclusion and empowerment across the state. Items of empowerment including school bags were distributed to the participants.
