Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has celebrated the extraordinary talent of 15-year-old Guinness World Record holder, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, with a cash award of N25 million in recognition of his artistic genius.
Kanyeyachukwu, an autistic teenager, etched his name in the Guinness World Records in November 2024 when he created the world’s largest art canvas — a 12,304-square-meter masterpiece featuring a multi-coloured ribbon symbolising autism, surrounded by vibrant emojis.
Receiving him at the State House on Monday, the First Lady praised his resilience and creativity, describing his achievement as proof that Nigeria’s youths can thrive against all odds.
“I read and heard about the young lad and sent for him. I want to thank his parents for loving him,” Mrs. Tinubu said. “Mental health challenges occur in many very intelligent children. I am aware of the many challenges of autism, and I have even written a book to raise awareness. Today, I want to use this platform to tell parents of special needs children to focus on their children’s gifts and strengths. Push them to explore their skills, and you’ll be amazed at what they can achieve.”
The First Lady added that the N25 million support would be channelled towards Kanyeyachukwu’s education, stressing that his triumph was an inspiration to other Nigerian children.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammed, commended the First Lady’s gesture, calling Kanyeyachukwu’s journey “a beacon of hope.”
“Despite his condition, Kanyeyachukwu has shown the boundless possibilities that arise when passion meets opportunity,” Musawa said. “His success also reflects the enabling environment the First Lady has created through her youth empowerment initiatives, ensuring no talent goes unnoticed and no dream remains unfulfilled.”
Senator Tinubu noted that the recognition, coming on the eve of Children’s Day, carried special significance:
“There couldn’t have been a better day to honour Kanyeyachukwu. He is proof that our children, no matter their challenges, can become global icons.”
The event climaxed with the First Lady presenting a cheque of N25 million and gifts to the teenage artist. In return, Kanyeyachukwu presented her with one of his paintings alongside his Guinness World Record certificate.