By Evelyn Zorzor
The Unity Hall in Asaba came alive with emotion, admiration, and resounding applause as the Delta State Government hosted a grand welcome ceremony in honour of young autistic prodigy, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a Guinness World Record holder and emerging symbol of resilience and limitless possibility.
Kanyeyachukwu, who in 2025 set a world record for creating the largest art canvas measuring an astonishing 12,303.87 square meters, larger than a standard football field was celebrated not only for his artistic brilliance but also for his courage as he embarks on a second world record attempt in endurance cycling.
The young champion, whose groundbreaking artwork titled “Impossibility is a Myth” has inspired global admiration, arrived in Asaba after cycling with his team from Enugu as part of his Endurance Cycling Campaign, aimed at raising awareness for autism and promoting inclusion.
He was warmly received by the Wife of the Delta State Governor and Founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation (YMCF), Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, alongside the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, who represented the state government at the event.
Delivering the welcome address on behalf of the State Government, Dr. Emu noted that the state does not merely identify with success, but celebrates purpose-driven excellence.
“We are not among those who run around only to associate with successful people,” he said. “We recognize and honour individuals whose journeys inspire transformation and hope.”
He commended Kanyeyachukwu’s parents, Mr. Tagbo Okeke and Dr. Mrs. Sylvia Tagbo-Okeke, for their unwavering commitment and intentional upbringing, which nurtured their son’s unique abilities despite the challenges of autism.
Dr. Emu further highlighted the young record holder’s determination to break another global record as the youngest person to cycle from Enugu to Lagos, describing his journey as one driven by courage, discipline, and purpose.
In her address, the First Lady expressed deep excitement and pride, describing the moment as a dream come true.
“I am very excited today because my dreams have come to limelight. With great joy, we welcome our young champion,” she said.
She emphasized that the event was not just a celebration of achievement, but a call to action.
“We are celebrating strength, resilience, and the power of inclusion. Kanyeyachukwu, you have carved a niche for yourself, and I want you to know that you have a place in the You Matter Charity Foundation.”
She reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to creating lasting impact for children with autism and special needs, noting that deliberate steps are being taken to build an enabling environment where every child can thrive.
“It is not accidental that we are already doing something meaningful for children with autism,” she added. “Our goal is to create a world where no child is left behind.”
She called on stakeholders and members of the public to become advocates for inclusion, stressing that collective effort is key to changing societal narratives around disability.
In an emotional tribute, she applauded Kanyeyachukwu’s parents for their resilience and unwavering love, describing their journey as deeply inspiring.
“Your strength has become a source of inspiration to me. Your labour of love will not be in vain,” she said.
Addressing the young champion directly, she added, “Kanyeyachukwu, you are truly a wonder to your world.”
Speaking at the event, High Chief Chuks Ndukweze, representing the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Society, praised the initiative and called for stronger advocacy and collective support for children living with autism.
According to him, Kanyeyachukwu began painting at the age of three, when his parents noticed a special kind of energy that stood out beyond his autistic tendencies, an early sign of the greatness that would later unfold.
He also revealed that funds raised through the initiative would be dedicated to training a minimum of 1,000 autism caregivers across the country, a move he described as critical to strengthening support systems for affected families.
Similarly, representatives of the Cyclists Federation of Nigeria lauded Kanyeyachukwu’s endurance campaign, noting that it not only promotes sports but also amplifies awareness around inclusion and special needs.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of a ₦10 million cheque award by the First Lady in recognition of Kanyeyachukwu’s extraordinary achievements and his role as a global ambassador for hope and inclusion.
Speaking briefly, Kanyeyachukwu’s father, Mr. Tagbo Okeke, expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government and all supporters, noting that their son’s journey has shown that disability can indeed be a wake-up call to do more, to love more, and to believe beyond limitations.
