Lagos State Commissioner Toke Benson-Awoyinka has promised infrastructural and financial backing for the annual Autism Art Exhibition, championing inclusivity

In a strong demonstration of its commitment to inclusivity and the support of creative expression, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has pledged the Lagos State Government’s full infrastructural and financial support to the annual Autism Art Exhibition.

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The Commissioner made this significant commitment on Saturday at the seventh edition of the event, which was held at the TR Art Gallery, situated on Glover Road in Ikoyi, Lagos.

During the exhibition, Benson-Awoyinka lauded the remarkable artistic talents displayed by children on the autism spectrum. She underscored the critical importance of providing platforms that actively encourage self-expression for individuals with neurodiversity.

“These are the kinds of support we can give to them,” the Commissioner affirmed, adding, “It’s not just about funding—it’s about creating an environment where they can be seen, appreciated, and heard through their art.”

Benson-Awoyinka further encouraged parents of children on the autism spectrum to continue fostering and nurturing their children’s creative abilities.

“Please continue to let these children express themselves through art,” she urged, adding, “You never know—these artworks could someday appreciate in value. More importantly, they offer us a window into their inner world, expressed in ways that words sometimes cannot capture.”

While touring the impressive exhibition, which featured a vibrant array of artworks, the Commissioner described the display as profoundly moving.

“What I see here is the soul of each child speaking through colour and shape,” she noted, adding, “Art becomes their voice—it allows us to connect with their innermost thoughts and emotions.”

She also commended the founder of the initiative, Dotun Akande, for her unwavering dedication to showcasing the creative potential of children on the autism spectrum.

“Mrs. Akande has created a laudable platform. This is how we ensure these children are not only included but also celebrated,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.

The Commissioner revealed that the Ministry is actively taking steps to integrate autism-focused art programmes into the State’s official tourism and arts calendar.

“Art has become a significant component of our cultural and creative landscape. As we roll out our tourism calendar, this important community will certainly be represented,” she remarked.

On her part, Akande expressed her sincere gratitude for the growing support the exhibition has received and highlighted the profound significance of the initiative.

“Even when some of these children do not speak, their art speaks volumes,” she said. “We organise this exhibition to showcase their brilliance and encourage families not to hide these children away. There is so much potential and purpose in each of them.”

The event was well-attended by notable personalities, including the MD/CEO of Ibile Oil and Gas Corporation, Doyin Akinyanju, who joined the Commissioner in viewing the thought-provoking works on display.

The exhibition served as both a vibrant celebration of artistic talent and a powerful reminder of the fundamental importance of ensuring that every child is seen, heard, and valued—emphasising that, at times, their voices find their most vivid and compelling expression through the medium of art.