HannaThe Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has lauded autistic teenager Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, 16, for achieving his second Guinness World Record after completing a 100-mile (160.9 km) cycling journey across seven states to promote autism awareness.
In a press statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the minister, Nneka Anibeze, on Saturday, Musawa described the feat as “a triumph of courage, resilience and purpose,” noting that the teenager’s accomplishment transcends sport and speaks to the urgent need for inclusion in Nigeria.
Kanyeyachukwu, a non-verbal autistic teenager, embarked on the endurance ride from Enugu State on March 14, 2026, traversing seven states before arriving in Lagos State on April 2, in commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day.
Musawa said the symbolic timing of the journey’s completion highlights the importance of sustained advocacy for people living with autism, a developmental condition that continues to face widespread stigma and limited institutional support in Nigeria.
“Kanyeyachukwu’s journey crosses geography and expectation. From canvas to highway, he carries the spirit of determination through every mile — stamina, imagination and quiet courage in motion,” the minister said.
She added, “His achievement is not only a personal victory but a national moment. It challenges us as a country to build systems that recognize and support diverse abilities, particularly for children and young people living with autism.”
The cycling record marks Kanyeyachukwu’s second global recognition, following his 2025 Guinness World Record for creating the largest painting on canvas by an individual — a work unveiled in Abuja. The dual accomplishments have positioned him as a leading youth advocate using creativity and endurance to amplify conversations around disability inclusion.
Musawa stressed that Nigeria’s creative economy must be deliberately inclusive, noting that non-verbal expression, visual arts, and alternative storytelling forms are critical components of cultural development.
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“The creative economy we are building must leave no one behind. Every voice matters — even when it is not spoken. Kanyeyachukwu reminds us that expression can take many powerful forms,” she said.
The minister further disclosed that the ministry would support national exhibitions of the teenager’s artwork and develop youth programs that connect creativity with advocacy, particularly in advancing autism awareness.
She also commended the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for the reception accorded to the young record holder at the end of his journey, as well as his pledge of ₦200 million towards autism advocacy and support for the Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke Foundation.
According to her, “The Lagos State Government’s commitment demonstrates the kind of leadership and partnership required to drive meaningful change. Investment in advocacy and caregiver support is essential to improving outcomes for families.”
Autism remains underdiagnosed in Nigeria, with limited access to early diagnosis, specialized education, and caregiver support services. Experts have repeatedly called for stronger policy frameworks, increased funding, and nationwide awareness campaigns to address these gaps.
Kanyeyachukwu’s advocacy extends beyond awareness, as he is currently raising funds to train 1,000 caregivers — an initiative aimed at strengthening community-based support systems for individuals living with autism.
Musawa noted that the ministry would host the teenager in Abuja for a youth creativity forum focused on non-verbal expression, endurance storytelling, and community participation in the arts and tourism sectors.
She said, “This is more than a celebration; it is a call to action. We must harness stories like Kanyeyachukwu’s to inspire policy, shift mindsets, and create opportunities for all Nigerians, regardless of ability.”
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