By Joshua Olomu

Autistic art savant, Tobechi Achionye, also known as Toby, has taken a campaign on inclusive empowerment to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ace artist unveiled the initiative at the Durumi IDPs Camp in Area 1.

The campaign captioned “Kindness for All Abilities Awareness” was part of activities by Toby to mark the 2025 Autism Acceptance Month and to as well mark his 24^th Birthday.

The event was organised by ‘Be Kind by Toby: A vision for Change’ in partnership with ‘RAISE Health & Wellness Organisation’ and ‘I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative.’

It featured practical painting sessions, music, creativity talks, and the “Kindness for All Abilities Runway: For Special Needs Awareness”, that showcased upcoming models.

In his welcome address, Toby said the campaign was dedicated to promoting kindness, inclusion, and awareness for individuals of all abilities, particularly those living with autism and other special needs.

According to him, every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, needs opportunity to participate fully in society and to achieve their full potential.

“I am really happy that you are all here today to celebrate this day with me, and it is very special because we are showing that kindness is for everyone.

“We will read and learn a few things about my journey with autism, create beautiful art, walk the runway in style and also play and sing some of my favourite tunes with you on my piano.

“Let us have fun, be kind and celebrate all abilities together,” he said.

Representatives of civil society groups, child right advocates, educators and other stakeholders from both the public and private sectors were present at the event to support the ace artist.

Some of the stakeholders who spoke with NAN on the sideline of the event, commended Toby for the gesture and called for a more inclusive society for children with special needs.

Sen. Frank Ibezim, a lawmaker, who represented Imo North Senatorial District in the 9^th Senate, called for equitable systems and structures to promote acceptance and access for children with special needs.

Ibezim, who is an uncle to the artist, lauded his courage against all odds in achieving his dreams.

“Whenever you are talking about Toby’s journey, you have to start with thanking the Almighty God for creating him 24 years ago, exactly today.

“We also thank God that at 24 he has shown us all the talents that Toby is made of, and if you saw his drawings today, you will also know that God is with him.

“Government over the years has budgeted a lot for people with special needs, and I can tell you it is not about challenges of the constitution, because no constitution is perfect.

“It is about our mindset; we need to show more commitment in terms of promoting empathy, inclusiveness and acceptance in a society like our own,” he said.

Habiba Abdullahi, a mother of an autistic child and founder of Great Minds Children and Youth Foundation, called for increased education and awareness for Nigerians to know more about autism.

“I can tell you that being a mom of an autistic child that even if you have the money to cater to the child’s immediate needs, the emotional need in handling is exhausting.

“So, what we’re saying is that the society in general should embrace education to arm ourselves with information of what the average autistic child is going through.

“Hospitals should have a corner where they can diagnose, assess and talk to those parents that are going through these things,” she advised.

NAN reports that Tobechi Achionye, born in the United States by Nigerian parents, is the founder of ‘Be Kind by Toby: A Vision for Change’.

The initiative promotes autism awareness, education, empowerment, and inclusivity, while advocating for creative expression in arts, fashion, and music.

Toby was a second runner-up in Autism’s Got Talent in Atlanta, Georgia, USA (2022) and has since continued to inspire through his artistic and musical brilliance.

Renowned for his creative prowess, Toby has continued to push for a society where no one is left behind, advocating for kindness and inclusion. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhammad Lawal/Ekemini Ladejobi