Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori and the founder of You Matter Charity Foundation, has urged stakeholders, parents, and caregivers on the need to celebrate and support children living with autism and other special needs to enable them to attain their full potential.
She stated this on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at the celebration of this year’s World Autism Awareness Day with the theme “Autism with Humanity: Every Life Has Value,” emphasising acceptance, inclusion, and the empowerment of every child in society.
The celebration commenced with a 4km awareness walk from Temple Clinic Junction to the Government House, Asaba, led by Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, who was joined by top Nigerian celebrities, including Harrysong, Patience Ozokwor and other entertainers, actors and actresses, whose participation amplified visibility and public engagement for Autism.
Speaking at the event, Deaconess Oborevwori described the theme as timely and deeply significant, noting that it underscores the dignity and inherent worth of every individual living with autism.
She emphasised that every child on the autism spectrum possesses unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that enrich society, calling for greater acceptance, inclusion, and equal rights beyond limitations.
The wife of the Governor further observed that many individuals with autism continue to face challenges ranging from societal misunderstanding and stigma to limited access to quality care, education, and support systems.
According to her, the day serves as a reminder that awareness alone is not sufficient, stressing the need for deliberate action towards inclusion, support, and meaningful engagement.
Reiterating her advocacy, she stated that autism is neither a spiritual condition nor a limitation, but a different way of experiencing the world that can be managed with early intervention, specialised care, understanding, and unconditional love.
She affirmed that the You Matter Charity Foundation remains committed to addressing these challenges by providing hope, creating enabling environments, and supporting vulnerable individuals and their families.
Deaconess Oborevwori added that although awareness about autism remains relatively low in many communities, the foundation has intensified efforts across the state through school visits, medical outreaches, and the distribution of learning aids.
She appreciated parents, caregivers, partners, and supporters for their dedication, assuring that their labour of love will not go unrewarded, while encouraging collective action to build a more inclusive society where individuals with autism can thrive and express themselves freely.
Speakers at the event delivered goodwill messages highlighting the unique potential and value of each child living with autism.
\Emphasising that differences are strengths rather than limitations, they encouraged society to provide opportunities for children to grow at their own pace with patience, support, and love.
The State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr Kingsley Ashibogwu, commended the First Lady for her support for children living with autism.
He assured that the new Federal Government curriculum would be domesticated in the state and would include provisions designed to meet the unique needs of children with special needs.
Abinoma Debbie Omomizee, representing teachers and caregivers, advocated for the inclusion of both verbal and non-verbal children in diverse activities, stressing the importance of consistent encouragement to help them realise their talents. Mrs Ekama Egomioan, a parent, highlighted acceptance as the first step toward progress, noting that the home remains the foundation for nurturing confidence and growth.
Patience Ozokwor, speaking on behalf of the actors and actresses present, called for sustained support for children living with autism, urging parents and caregivers to remain patient and intentional while allowing the children to develop at their own pace.
The event also featured performances and presentations by children and young adults living with autism, induction of ambassadors for Autism awareness by Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, who also presented learning aids such as smart Android tablets, choice toys and other gift items to the children.
