Breaking Stigma in Sokoto: Candlelight Foundation's 2-Day Awareness Campaign

The road to Sokoto stretches long and dusty across the north-western corner of Nigeria. In September 2025, it also became a road to hope for hundreds of families who had never before encountered the words "autism," "ADHD," or "special needs support."

Why Sokoto?

Stigma around childhood disability remains one of the most significant barriers to care in northern Nigeria. Many families believe their child's condition is a spiritual problem, a curse, or simply a phase that will pass. Formal diagnosis is rare; specialist services are almost nonexistent.

When the Candlelight Foundation selected Sokoto as the site for its September awareness campaign, the goal was simple: show up, listen, and open doors that felt permanently closed.

Day One: Community Outreach

The team set up at a community health centre and within the first hour, a queue had formed stretching outside the building. Parents carried children on their backs. Some families had journeyed for more than four hours. One mother later told our team that seven members of her family had squeezed into the boot of a minibus to make the trip.

Free screenings were conducted. Our therapists spoke directly with families in Hausa, answering questions with patience and without judgment. For many parents, this was the first time they heard that their child's behaviour had a name — and a pathway forward.

Day Two: Professional Training

The second day was dedicated to local teachers, community health workers, and religious leaders. Understanding that change at the community level requires trusted voices, we focused on equipping these influencers with accurate information and compassionate language.

The response was overwhelming. Teachers described children in their classrooms whose behaviour suddenly made sense. A local imam expressed commitment to addressing disability stigma in his sermons.

What Came Next

Over 300 families were screened across both days. Forty-seven children were identified for follow-up assessment. A network of local volunteers was established to provide ongoing community support.

But perhaps the most lasting impact was harder to measure: the shift in how families saw their children — not as burdens or embarrassments, but as children who deserved support, therapy, and a future.

"I didn't know there was a name for what my son does. I thought I had failed him. Today I know I can still help him." — A mother, Sokoto, 2025

Support Our Outreach

Campaigns like this are only possible through the generosity of donors and volunteers. Donate today to help us bring awareness, screening, and hope to more communities across Nigeria.