Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has announced the full programme for its 16th Annual Autism Conference, reaffirming its commitment to promoting autism awareness, inclusion, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families across West Africa.
The conference, themed “Acceptance in Action: From Family to Classroom to Workplace to Public Spaces,” will take place on Monday, July 27, and Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Muson Centre in Lagos. It will be followed by free one-on-one consultations with developmental and medical specialists from July 29 to August 1 at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos on Wednesday, GTCO officials and autism experts highlighted the importance of moving beyond awareness to practical inclusion by creating supportive environments in homes, schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
The annual conference has grown into one of West Africa’s foremost platforms for autism advocacy, bringing together healthcare professionals, behavioural therapists, educators, policymakers, caregivers, and families to discuss strategies that improve the quality of life for people living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).
This year’s programme will feature expert-led panel discussions, interactive workshops, and free consultation sessions facilitated by renowned local and international specialists in behavioural and developmental sciences. Discussions will focus on early diagnosis and intervention, behavioural therapy, communication skills, inclusive education, and caregiver support.
Following the Nigerian programme, GTCO will extend the initiative to Ghana, where a workshop is scheduled for August 4 at the University of Professional Studies, Accra. Free consultations will then be held at the same venue from August 5 to August 8.
Commenting on the initiative, GTCO Group Chief Executive Officer, Segun Agbaje, said the programme has evolved significantly since its launch 16 years ago, helping families facing the challenges of autism access expert guidance and support.
He noted that this year’s theme calls on individuals, institutions, and governments to translate awareness into practical actions that promote inclusion in every aspect of society.
According to Agbaje, creating an inclusive society requires the collective efforts of families, educators, employers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. He stressed that no single organisation can achieve meaningful inclusion alone, adding that GTCO remains committed to providing access to world-class expertise and resources that empower individuals living with autism.
The conference is expected to attract hundreds of participants from Nigeria and neighbouring countries, including parents, teachers, therapists, medical practitioners, and advocates seeking practical solutions for autism support and inclusion.
GTCO said the free consultation sessions will provide families with direct access to specialists who will offer assessments, guidance, and recommendations tailored to the developmental needs of children and adults on the autism spectrum.
The financial institution added that its Autism Programme remains one of its flagship corporate social responsibility initiatives, reflecting its commitment to improving lives through healthcare, education, and community development.
GTCO Plc is one of Africa’s leading financial services groups, with operations spanning banking, payments, pension administration, and asset management across 11 countries, including Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and several African markets. Through its annual Autism Conference, the company continues to champion greater understanding, acceptance, and opportunities for individuals living with autism while encouraging communities to build a more inclusive society for all.
