By Lanre Oloyede
In a bold move to combat the widespread discrimination and stigmatization of children living with autism and other special needs in Nigeria, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, is set to partner with renowned social media influencer and entrepreneur, Mrs. Hauwa Saidu Mohammed, popularly known as Jaruma.
The proposed partnership will see both parties collaborate to launch a nationwide advocacy campaign aimed at dismantling the societal prejudices that continue to marginalize children with special needs and force many families to hide their children from public view due to fear of shame and judgment.
Speaking during a courtesy meeting, Jaruma expressed deep concern about the discrimination and stigma that individuals with autism often face. “Many parents are forced to hide their children because of how society treats people with special needs. This must change. I am ready to use my voice, platform, and influence to drive this campaign and change the narrative,” she declared.
Jaruma, CEO of Jaruma Empire and a well-known figure in Nigeria’s adult industry, has built a strong following through her controversial aphrodisiac products and frank discussions on relationships. She now seeks to channel her celebrity status into a cause close to her heart: creating an inclusive society where every child, regardless of their abilities, is accepted and celebrated.
She also commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its efforts toward disability inclusion, expressing readiness to support and campaign for his re-election in 2027 based on his performance and the enabling environment created for stakeholders championing disability rights.
In response, Hon. Abba Isa welcomed the partnership, pledging his full support for the campaign. “My office will work 100 percent in partnership with you and other organizations that are dedicated to ending the discrimination and stigmatization of children with special needs,” he affirmed.
He further emphasized that the mandate given by President Bola Tinubu is clear: to promote inclusion and equal opportunities for all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable. “The President has provided the enabling environment and full backing to work with influencers, stakeholders, and NGOs to end the culture of exclusion. This partnership is a step in that direction,” he added.
In a symbolic gesture that underscores the seriousness of the initiative, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa presented Jaruma with a copy of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. The presentation was a powerful act of entrusting her with the legal instrument that underpins the campaign, reinforcing her role as an advocate who will help give voice to millions of voiceless children and families affected by discrimination.
The campaign is expected to roll out in the coming weeks, with strategic messaging, grassroots mobilization, and media outreach designed to foster empathy, educate the public, and reshape societal attitudes toward children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
This collaboration signals a growing momentum in the advocacy for disability rights in Nigeria, uniting government, influencers, and civil society in the fight for an inclusive and compassionate nation.
