Foundation amplifies autism awareness through music concert

The Ferdinand Effah Music Heritage Foundation (FEMHF) has called for urgent national attention to the growing needs of vulnerable autistic individuals and their families.

The foundation warned that low awareness, stigma and limited access to support services continue to expose many Nigerians living with autism to neglect and social exclusion.

Against this backdrop, FEMHF, in a statement on Tuesday by its President and Trustee, Stanley Effah, announced the deployment of music as a creative advocacy tool, unveiling an annual concert initiative designed to use the unifying power of music to drive autism awareness, promote acceptance and mobilise practical support for autistic individuals and their caregivers across Nigeria.

The Foundation said the initiative was conceived in response to the growing challenges faced by autistic individuals and their caregivers, including social stigma, limited access to specialised services, financial strain and inadequate public awareness.

Effah stressed that music provides a powerful and inclusive medium to bridge these gaps, adding, “Music, like positive memories, is a universal language that brings people together.

“It has the power to connect communities, humanise lived experiences and give visibility to autistic individuals and families whose needs are often overlooked by society and policymakers.”

Under the programme, he said FEMHF will host annual live concerts featuring leading Nigerian music artists, its in-house ensemble Ferdy’s Band, as well as autistic individuals and groups who have demonstrated talent in music and live performance.

The concerts, according to the Foundation, are expected to create a safe and inclusive space where autistic individuals and their families can engage directly with the wider public, share their experiences, and challenge misconceptions about autism.

The Foundation explained that showcasing the abilities of autistic individuals is central to the initiative.

“These concerts are not just about entertainment. They are about celebrating talent, reinforcing dignity and reminding society that autistic individuals have abilities, aspirations and contributions that deserve recognition and support,” Effah added.

Beyond awareness, the concerts will also function as a structured fundraising platform, FEMHF affirmed, noting that proceeds will be channelled towards supporting autistic children and young adults from less privileged families who are unable to afford essential therapies, medical interventions and specialised education.

The Foundation disclosed that funds raised will also be invested in long-term skills acquisition and development programmes aimed at empowering autistic individuals for self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.

Advertisement