First Lady of Nigeria Awards N25 Million to Autistic Teen Artist Kanyeyachukwu Okeke for Guiness World Record-Breaking Achievement
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has awarded a N25 million cash gift to 15-year-old autistic artist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, in celebration of his extraordinary feat of setting a Guinness World Record for the largest art canvas in the world.
The event, held at the First Lady’s office in Abuja, underscores the growing acknowledgment and inclusion of children with special needs in Nigeria’s national spotlight.
Kanyeyachukwu, fondly known as “Kanye,” achieved international acclaim when he created a 12,304-square-meter artwork in November 2024. The record-breaking piece prominently features a multicolored autism awareness ribbon, symbolizing neurodiversity, inclusion, and hope, and is surrounded by vibrant emojis that convey a range of human emotions.
The massive canvas not only demonstrated Kanye’s creative talent but also served as a powerful statement on the capabilities of individuals living with autism.
This accomplishment secured him a place in the Guinness World Records and has since sparked widespread admiration both locally and globally.
While receiving the young prodigy, the First Lady expressed deep admiration for his resilience and talent, stating that the N25 million grant is a reward for his artistic brilliance and is intended to support his continued education and personal development. She emphasized the importance of nurturing and investing in the potential of children with special needs.
“I read and heard about the young lad and sent for him. I want to thank the parents for loving him,” Senator Tinubu said. “Mental health challenges occur in many brilliant children. I am aware of the many challenges of autism, and I have written a book to raise awareness.”
Senator Tinubu, who has long championed social welfare, used the occasion to encourage parents and guardians of children with disabilities or neurodevelopmental conditions to recognize and nurture their unique abilities rather than dwell on their challenges.
“These special needs children usually have a single interest, so parents should help them push toward their preferred skills and goals,” she advised. “Tuesday is Children’s Day, and there couldn’t have been a better day than today to recognise Kanye.”
During the ceremony, Kanyeyachukwu presented Senator Tinubu with a custom painting and a copy of his Guinness World Record certificate as tokens of appreciation. In return, the First Lady honoured the young artist with a dummy cheque, other meaningful gifts, and warm words of encouragement, further affirming her administration’s support for inclusive growth and youth empowerment.
The event was also graced by representatives from the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy. The Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammed, lauded both the artist and the First Lady for their contributions to national creativity and inclusion.
“Kanyeyachukwu’s journey is a testament to the boundless possibilities that arise when passion meets opportunity,” the minister said. “Despite being autistic, his achievement is a beacon of hope for countless young Nigerians aspiring to make their mark in art and culture.”
He praised the Renewed Hope Initiative, championed by the First Lady, as a vital platform for enabling youth empowerment, especially among marginalized and vulnerable groups. According to him, the initiative is playing a critical role in closing the gap between potential and opportunity for Nigeria’s young population.
Kanyeyachukwu’s story is one of perseverance, support, and vision. With the right encouragement from his family, society, and national leaders like the First Lady, his talents have been given the spotlight they deserve. His recognition not only amplifies conversations about autism awareness but also highlights the importance of inclusive policies, arts education, and mental health advocacy.
This moment is a reminder that brilliance exists in every child—and when nurtured, it can lead to world-changing impact.