On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day, the FIDA Nigeria Epe Branch took its advocacy to the airwaves of LAW FM 103.9. At the forefront of this impactful outreach was the branch’s dynamic General Secretary, Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu, whose voice carried a powerful message of inclusion, protection, and empowerment for children living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
In her address, Mrs. Olisa-Mokelu eloquently outlined key measures essential for safeguarding autistic children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. She emphasized the importance of holistic support systems—ranging from family and educators to policy-makers—and called for collective responsibility in ensuring every autistic child receives the protection and care they deserve.
A passionate advocate for early detection, inclusive education, and community-based interventions, she stressed the need for increased public awareness about autism. “Autism is not a disease,” she noted, “but a developmental condition that manifests differently in each individual.” Her insights helped demystify the condition, underlining the spectrum nature of autism and the importance of tailored behavioral, educational, and therapeutic support.
Mrs. Olisa-Mokelu didn’t stop at awareness, she called on the government to take decisive steps: prioritizing funding for autism research, promoting early diagnosis, integrating inclusive health insurance schemes, and creating policies that uplift and protect autistic individuals. She also encouraged private sector collaboration and urged citizens to support autism-related causes through volunteering and digital advocacy.
As a voice of reason, compassion, and advocacy, Mrs. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu left listeners with a compelling charge: “Let us all commit to creating an inclusive society where early intervention is the norm, and no child on the spectrum is left behind.”
Her leadership during this advocacy campaign exemplifies FIDA Epe Branch’s unwavering commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of vulnerable populations, particularly children with special needs.
