Theme: “Acceptance in Action: From Family to Classroom to Workplace to Public Spaces”
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has announced the 16th edition of its Annual Autism Conference, scheduled for Monday, July 27, and Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Muson Centre, Lagos.
Themed “Acceptance in Action: From Family to Classroom to Workplace to Public Spaces,” the conference will be followed by free one-on-one family consultations with specialists. This initiative underscores GTCO’s longstanding commitment to advancing autism advocacy by providing access to developmental support, professional guidance, and learning opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Over the past sixteen years, the GTCO Autism Programme has evolved into a leading platform for autism awareness and inclusion across West Africa. It has consistently brought together healthcare professionals, therapists, educators, policymakers, caregivers, and families to deepen understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and to strengthen support systems that improve outcomes for individuals on the spectrum.
This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of moving beyond awareness to creating inclusive environments where individuals with autism are empowered at home, in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. The 2026 programme will feature expert-led discussions, interactive workshops, and free consultation sessions delivered by renowned local and international specialists in developmental and behavioural sciences. Key focus areas will include early intervention, behavioural therapy, communication strategies, inclusive education, and caregiver support.
In Nigeria, the conference will take place on July 27–28 at the Muson Centre, Lagos, followed by consultations from July 29 to August 1 at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja. In Ghana, the programme will begin with a workshop on August 4 at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, with consultations continuing from August 5 to 8 at the same venue.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO, stated: “Sixteen years ago, we set out to help families navigate a journey that often felt isolating. Today, this programme stands as proof of what sustained commitment can achieve. ‘Acceptance in Action’ challenges us all to move past good intentions and make inclusion visible—in our schools, workplaces, and public spaces.”
He further noted: “No single institution can build an inclusive society alone. It requires families willing to advocate, educators willing to adapt, employers willing to open doors, and policymakers willing to act. Our role is to continually provide the expertise and resources needed so that every individual on the autism spectrum can participate fully and confidently in everyday life.”
For more information on the GTCO Autism Programme and free consultations, please visit: https://csr.gtbank.com/autism.
