29/05/2026
JUTH COMMEMORATES WORLD AUTISM DAY AWARENESS
written by Casmir Jangado, edited by Bridget Omini
Photographed by Mary Dalhyel
The Department of Psychiatry of Jos University Teaching Hospital has commemorated the 2026 World Autism Awareness Day
with a strong call for increased advocacy, inclusion, and support for individuals living with autism and their families.
World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to draw global attention to autism as a growing public health concern.
The event, themed “Autism and Humanity: Every Life Has Value,” was held at the ETF Hall of University of Jos and attracted healthcare professionals, caregivers, students, and advocates.
Declaring the event open, the Head of the Department of Psychiatry, Professor Tungchama Friday Philip, welcomed participants and emphasized the need for sustained advocacy and support for individuals living with autism, as well as their parents and caregivers.
Professor Philip noted that autism reflects the diversity of human life and urged society to embrace inclusiveness through improved interventions and stronger public support systems. He further encouraged participants to extend autism awareness campaigns to communities, schools, and workplaces.
Several presentations were delivered during the programme on various aspects of autism care and management. Enok Ikon spoke on the nursing role in the management and care of autistic children, while Ajuma Ebiloma discussed the clinical psychological management of autism. Goteb Josephine Jurbe delivered a presentation on occupational therapy and autism, and Nandi R.Daspan highlighted the role of social workers in supporting families of individuals living with autism.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. AkunaEziri Eleojo presented a lecture on autism awareness and inclusion, stressing the importance of creating an enabling environment for persons living with autism.
A major highlight of the programme was the keynote presentation by Mrs. Lohna Langmang of Busy Beehive, who described autism not simply as a disability but as a “different ability.”
According to her, autism is a neurological difference that affects how individuals interact with and process the world around them. She educated participants on different autism spectrum conditions, including classic autism and childhood disintegrative disorders, while also explaining various behavioural patterns and communication styles associated with autism spectrum disorders.
Drawing from both professional knowledge and personal experiences, Mrs. Langmang provided practical insights into understanding and supporting people living with autism.
In his remarks, Dr. Pokop, the Chief Medical Director of Jos University Teaching Hospital, represented by Professor Chindung Miner , called for the full integration of persons living with autism into everyday community life.
He stressed that autism awareness campaigns should extend beyond hospitals and schools into communities and public spaces, while reaffirming continued support for autism advocacy and care initiatives.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr. Margaret Ojeahere who appreciated participants and stakeholders for their commitment toward promoting autism awareness and inclusion.