On World Autism Awareness Day 2025, First Lady Remi Tinubu urges Nigerians to embrace neurodiversity and ensure equal opportunities for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder

[dropcap]S[/dropcap]enator Remi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, has called for an end to the discrimination faced by Nigerians living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

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In a powerful message marking World Autism Awareness Day 2025, Mrs. Tinubu urged the public to embrace neurodiversity as a vital component of national development and to ensure equal opportunities for those on the autism spectrum.

The First Lady emphasized the need to build an inclusive society where autistic individuals can access education, healthcare, employment, and social opportunities without facing barriers or stigma.

“This year’s theme, ‘Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),’ is a timely reminder that inclusion is not just a moral obligation but a cornerstone of sustainable development,” Mrs. Tinubu said in her statement.

Despite the many unique skills and talents of individuals with ASD, Mrs. Tinubu pointed out that many still encounter systemic challenges, particularly in the areas of quality education (SDG 4) and decent work (SDG 8).

She highlighted the importance of recognizing and embracing neurodiversity, noting, “Neurodiversity is a beautiful testament to human uniqueness. We all process information differently.”

She continued, stressing that it is the collective responsibility of all Nigerians to ensure that no one is left behind due to the way they think, learn, or interact with the world.

“It is our collective duty to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind because of how they think, learn, or interact with the world,” she said.

In her message, the First Lady called for more than just awareness. She urged policymakers, educators, employers, and community leaders to actively support initiatives that create equal opportunities for neurodivergent individuals.

“On this special day, I encourage all Nigerians to advocate for inclusion and work together to create a society where every individual has the opportunity to excel,” she said.

World Autism Awareness Day, observed every April 2, aims to raise understanding and acceptance of people with autism, while fostering worldwide support for their rights and well-being.