In a passionate and deeply reflective appeal that has continued to spark conversations, neurodivergence and disability inclusion advocate Eyvonne Eleko has urged Nigerians to completely rethink how they understand and respond to neurodiversity, warning that long-held cultural beliefs are causing harm, delay in support, and lifelong exclusion for many individuals.
Speaking during a live appearance on Global Morning, a television programme in Abuja, Eleko challenged the widespread tendency to interpret neurodivergent conditions through spiritual or supernatural lenses. She described this belief system as one of the major barriers preventing families from accessing early diagnosis, proper guidance, and life-changing support.
According to her, conditions such as autism and other developmental differences are not spiritual punishments, curses, or signs of wrongdoing, but natural variations in how the human brain develops and functions. She stressed that continuing to frame them as spiritual issues only deepens misunderstanding and isolates those who need help the most.
Sharing a personal and emotional reflection, Eleko spoke about her own childhood experience as a neurodivergent individual. She recalled moments of confusion, intimidation, and misjudgment from people who did not understand her behaviour. However, she credited the strong support system she received from her family as a key factor that helped her grow with confidence and purpose. She noted that many others are not as fortunate, and are instead left to struggle in silence.
Eleko expressed concern that countless children in Nigeria are being misunderstood daily, with behaviours such as sensitivity to sound, difficulty focusing, delayed developmental milestones, and unique learning patterns often dismissed as stubbornness, disrespect, or even spiritual attack. She urged parents, guardians, and educators to begin paying closer attention to these signs and to seek professional evaluation rather than relying on myths or assumptions.
She further warned that society is losing out on significant potential by excluding neurodivergent individuals from education systems, workplaces, and social spaces. “There is so much untapped brilliance being ignored simply because we do not understand it,” her message emphasized, calling for a shift from rejection to recognition.
Through her organisation, Daughter of Ellen Support and Empowerment Initiative, Eleko is actively working to bridge this gap by promoting awareness, education, and inclusion across communities in Nigeria and beyond. The initiative focuses on reshaping public perception, supporting families, and building environments where neurodivergent individuals can thrive without fear of discrimination.
She also announced ongoing plans for expanded school outreach programmes, strategic partnerships with educators and healthcare professionals, and a major upcoming conference in Abuja aimed at deepening national dialogue around neurodiversity and inclusion.
Eleko revealed that the initiative is currently self-funded, but remains open to collaborations and partnerships with individuals, organisations, and institutions willing to support the cause of inclusion and awareness, particularly for children who are often the most affected.
She concluded her message with a powerful reminder that difference should not be feared but understood, adding that true progress lies in replacing stigma with knowledge and exclusion with acceptance.
Members of the public are encouraged to learn more about the initiative and join the movement by visiting the Daughter of Ellen Support and Empowerment Initiative website at daughterofellen.org
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