A frontline aspirant for the Delta State House of Assembly, Ughelli South Constituency, Mr. Emuoboh Gbagi, has donated the sum of N10 million to the You Matter Charity Foundation in commemoration of the 2026 World Autism Awareness Day.
Gbagi made the donation on Thursday during a colourful celebration held at Government House, Asaba, describing the gesture as a modest contribution to support the foundation’s humanitarian efforts, particularly towards children living with autism and other vulnerable groups.
The event, organized by the Office of the Wife of the Delta State Governor, featured a strong advocacy for inclusion, awareness, and improved support systems for individuals on the autism spectrum.
In her address, the Wife of the Governor, Tobore Oborevwori, emphasized that children with autism are uniquely gifted and should not be discriminated against or hidden due to societal misconceptions.
She urged parents and caregivers to embrace their children, stressing that autism is not a spiritual attack but a medical condition that requires understanding, care, and early intervention.
According to her, “Every child is special and created for a purpose. Children living with autism are not less human; they are endowed with talents that can positively impact society if properly nurtured.”
She further assured that her office would continue to champion policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of children with special needs across the state.
The Governor’s wife highlighted inspiring stories of children with autism who have defied limitations, including a 14-year-old autistic boy attempting to break a Guinness World Record through endurance cycling, describing such feats as proof of the immense potential within every child.
She also commended Gbagi for his generosity, offering prayers for continued blessings and prosperity, while noting that such acts of kindness help sustain the foundation’s outreach and support programmes.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Kingsley Ashibuogwu, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to inclusive education.
He stated that the government does not see children with autism as disabled but as individuals with special abilities who deserve equal access to quality education.
Ashibuogwu disclosed that efforts are ongoing to adapt the newly introduced national curriculum to reflect inclusivity, ensuring that children with special needs are fully integrated into the educational system without discrimination.
The event also attracted notable personalities from the entertainment industry, including Nollywood veteran Patience Ozokwor and music star Harrysong, who joined in celebrating and supporting children living with autism.
The 2026 World Autism Awareness Day, themed “Autism and Humanity: Every Life Has Value,” served as a platform to call for greater acceptance, inclusion, and action in addressing the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum.
The You Matter Charity Foundation reiterated its commitment to advocacy, medical outreach, and continuous support for families, while calling on individuals, corporate organizations, and stakeholders to partner in building a more inclusive society.
