Abuja: Tobechi Achionye, a multi-talented autistic savant and runway model known as Kind Toby, has launched a kindness and inclusive empowerment campaign at a school for special needs in celebration of the 2025 World Kindness Day (WKD).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, themed ‘Kindness for All Abilities,’ was held at the School for Special Needs in Kuje, Abuja. It featured an ‘Inclusive Runway for Kindness,’ where Kind Toby and other models walked the runway alongside the school pupils, emphasizing inclusion. The artist also delivered a musical performance, showcasing some of his hit singles, including ‘I be Somebody’ and ‘Be Kind.’
In his welcome address, Kind Toby emphasized the campaign’s focus on promoting kindness, inclusion, and awareness for children with special needs. He stated that every child, regardless of their background or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to fully participate in society and achieve their potential.
The event was attended by representatives of civil society groups, child rights advocates, educators, stakeholders from both public and private sectors, and organizations such as the Police and the FRSC, demonstrating broad support for the initiative.
Mr. Mohammed Isa, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, praised Toby and his team for organizing the event. Isa highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive development and empowerment for Nigerians, aligning with the administration’s Renewed Hope mantra. He emphasized the importance of inclusion as a cornerstone of kindness and assured the school management of the administration’s dedication to advancing the cause of people with disabilities.
Senator Frank Ibezim, an uncle to the artist, also spoke at the event, advocating for equitable systems and structures to promote acceptance and access for children with special needs. He commended stakeholders for supporting the initiative and emphasized the inherent abilities present in individuals with disabilities.
Mr. Isaac Ikpangetor, Head Teacher of the school, expressed his happiness at the event, highlighting it as a historic display of kindness and inclusion for the children. He called on Nigerians of goodwill to support the school, acknowledging that government efforts alone are insufficient.
The event culminated with the presentation of two books, ‘Be Kind: A Story of Understanding, Kindness and Autism Awareness’ and ‘I Can Share: Kindness Awareness,’ authored by Mrs. Noni Okocha, CEO of ‘I Am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative.’
NAN reports that World Kindness Day, celebrated globally each year on November 13, underscores the power of kindness in the community and encourages individuals to transcend boundaries, race, and religion to show kindness to others.