The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has hailed 16-year-old non-verbal autistic prodigy, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, following his historic second Guinness World Records achievement as the youngest person to cycle 100 miles (160.9 km).
Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Dr. Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement quoted the minister to have described the feat as “a triumph of courage, creativity, and purpose,” the Minister said Kanyeyachukwu continues to redefine possibility, using both art and endurance to amplify the conversation around autism and inclusion.
The remarkable journey, which began in Enugu State on March 14, 2026, saw the teenager ride across seven states before completing the 100-mile challenge in Lagos on World Autism Awareness Day — a symbolic finish that underscores the mission behind the milestone.
This latest record comes a year after his groundbreaking achievement for the largest painting on canvas by an individual, unveiled in Abuja — firmly establishing him as one of Nigeria’s most extraordinary young changemakers.
Musawa, in her tribute, said:
“Kanyeyachukwu’s journey crosses geography and expectation. From canvas to highway, he carries Enugu’s spirit through seven states to Lagos — stamina, imagination and quiet courage in every mile. He reminds us that the creative economy includes every voice and every way of moving through the world.”
She noted that his story embodies the expanding definition of Nigeria’s creative economy — one that embraces diversity, resilience, and unconventional forms of expression.
The Minister announced that the Ministry will support national exhibitions of Kanyeyachukwu’s artwork and expand youth programmes that connect creativity with advocacy, particularly around autism awareness and inclusion.
She also commended Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the warm reception accorded the young achiever and praised his ₦200 million pledge towards autism advocacy and support for the Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke Foundation.
Looking ahead, the Ministry plans to host the teenager in Abuja for a youth creativity forum spotlighting non-verbal expression, endurance storytelling, and inclusive participation across the arts and tourism sectors.
Beyond the records, Kanyeyachukwu’s mission remains deeply rooted in impact — breaking stigma, advocating inclusive policies, and supporting families navigating autism. As part of this vision, he is currently fundraising to train 1,000 caregivers, further extending his influence beyond inspiration to tangible change.
His journey, the Minister noted, is not just about records — it is about rewriting narratives.
Musawa Celebrates Kanyeyachukwu’s Second World Record, Backs Autism Advocacy Drive
