▪︎Tinubu, Musawa, Sanwo-Olu, others hail Kanyeyachukwu’s artistic brilliance
The Federal Government has pledged to work closely with relevant stakeholders once the ongoing review of the Nigerian Child Rights Act is concluded, in order to establish the necessary regulatory frameworks that will attract investment and provide infrastructure to unlock opportunities for children nationwide.
Speaking at the Exhibition of the Guinness World Record Artwork, organised by the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Society in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy and Eko Atlantic City, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commended the resilience and creativity of the Nigerian child.
Represented by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the First Lady described the artistic feat of Kanyeyachukwu (Kanye) Tagbo-Okeke as proof that ‘impossibility is a myth,’ praising his determination and courage.
“I am delighted to join you this evening at this special art exhibition, which celebrates the boundless creativity and vision of a remarkable young Nigerian, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke.
“Our Child Rights Act is 23 years old, but under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s watch, it is currently undergoing review. I look forward to partnering with all stakeholders to ensure a strong and effective framework for the protection of Nigerian children,” she said.
Tinubu recalled receiving Kanyeyachukwu at the State House on May 25, 2025, where she was “struck by his artistic genius, courage, and determination.
“By painting the largest art canvas in the world, he has not only broken a Guinness World Record but also shattered barriers of perception. Despite living with autism, he has demonstrated that our differences are not limitations but sources of unique strength, creativity, and purpose,” she added.
The First Lady further noted that the exhibition represented a bold statement of Nigeria’s cultural vibrancy, technological innovation, and environmental consciousness, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision of empowering young Nigerians to shape the future of the nation and the world.
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hanatu Musawa, described Kanyeyachukwu’s achievement as a national honour that reflects Nigeria’s creative potential.
She reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to increasing support for artists on the autism spectrum and other persons with special needs.
“As Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, I see in this record not merely a personal achievement, but a national statement of who we are and who we can be,” Musawa said, adding, “We will continue to expand access to resources, training, mentorship, and exhibition platforms.
“Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we are building a Nigeria where talent is nurtured, and where arts and culture serve as pillars of social development, economic growth, and unity. Kanye’s success is a beacon of what is possible when policy, community support, family love, and personal dedication come together,” she affirmed.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his goodwill message, said the historic artwork carried a powerful message of acceptance and inclusion for people with autism.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Tourism, Mr. Idris Aregbe, Sanwo-Olu said Lagos would continue to prioritise youth development, describing Kanyeyachukwu’s achievement as a reaffirmation of the state’s belief in the capacity of young people to inspire global change.
“To over 22 million Lagosians, your record is a beacon of hope. You have inspired your peers and reminded us that possibility is within reach,” he said.
