FG to support talented autistic children as boy sets Guiness World Record
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting talented autistic children in Nigeria, recognizing their potential in the creative industry.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, made this declaration on Wednesday at Eagles Square, Abuja, during the unveiling and presentation of a certificate to 15-year-old autistic artist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, by the Guinness World Record Organization. The event coincided with the commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day.
In her address, Minister Musawa congratulated Kanyeyachukwu for his remarkable achievement in breaking the Guinness World Record by painting the largest art canvas in the world.
“We are here to honor 15-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a young Nigerian prodigy who has shown the world what is possible when passion meets hard work. By breaking this world record, Kanyeyachukwu has not only set a new record but has also demonstrated to us all that age is no barrier to greatness,” Musawa stated.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s dedication to providing opportunities for autistic individuals in the creative industry. “We recognize the unique abilities and potential of individuals with autism and are dedicated to providing opportunities for them to thrive in the creative industries,” she said.
Kanyeyachukwu’s record-breaking artwork, Impossible is a Myth, was lauded as not only an artistic feat but also a beacon of inspiration for autistic children worldwide. “His achievement demonstrates that with the right support and opportunities, individuals with autism can excel in their chosen fields,” Musawa added.
She assured that the Ministry would work with relevant stakeholders to create platforms for autistic artists like Kanyeyachukwu to showcase their talents. “We will work with relevant stakeholders to create opportunities for autistic children to develop their creative skills and pursue their passions,” she said.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed M. Malik; the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, H.E. Pasquale Salvaggio; the Director-General of the National Gallery of Art, Ahmed Bashir Sodangi; President of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Muhammad Suleiman; representatives of the Chief of Defense Staff and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory; officials from the Guinness World Record Organization; and popular Afrobeat singer Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo, popularly known as D’banj.
