Oluremi Tinubu Awards N25M to Autistic Teen’s Guinness World Record Success

The wife of Nigeria's President and Senator, Oluremi Tinubu, has presented a monetary prize of 25 million naira to Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, who holds the Guinness World Record for creating the world's biggest art canvas.

In November 2024, Kanyeyachukwu, a talented 15-year-old artist with autism, achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a new Guinness World Record. They created an enormous artwork measuring 12,304 square meters, which features a vibrant multicolored ribbon—a widely recognized emblem for autism—accompanied by various emojis surrounding it.

On Monday, when Kanyeyachukwu visited her office, Senator Oluremi Tinubu mentioned that the financial assistance was intended to support his artistic talents and recommended using it for educational purposes. She also shared her appreciation for Kanyeyachukwu’s accomplishment of setting a Guinness World Record, particularly considering the obstacles he has faced.

I came across information about the young boy and had him brought to me. I wish to express my gratitude to his parents for raising him with care. Many highly intelligent children face mental health issues. I understand the numerous difficulties associated with autism, and I have authored a book aimed at increasing public understanding of this condition.

I would like to utilize this platform to convey a message to other parents of children with special needs: concentrate on your children’s abilities and strengths.

These children with special needs often focus on a particular interest; therefore, parents ought to assist them in developing their chosen abilities and objectives.

"Thank you for all your hard work in assisting Kanye to secure the Guinness World Record. Since Tuesday is celebrated as Children’s Day, there could not be a more appropriate time than today to acknowledge Kanye," stated the First Lady.

The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammed, praised the First Lady for reaching this significant achievement.

"Kanyeyachukwu’s voyage stands as proof of the endless opportunities that emerge when enthusiasm aligns with possibility. Even though he has autism, his success serves as an inspiration for numerous other young Nigerians who dream of making their impact in the realms of art and culture," stated Minister Musawa.

He credited Kanyeyachukwu’s achievements to the initiatives of the First Lady’s Youth Empowerment schemes and the supportive atmosphere conducive for youth development.

Your dedication to uplifting young people in Nigeria stands out uniquely. The Renewed Hope Initiative, centered on supporting women and youth, under the leadership of the First Lady, has spearheaded numerous programs aimed at closing the gap between potential and possibility. This ensures that every talent gets recognized and each aspiration becomes achievable.

The First Lady bestowed upon Kanyeyachukwu gifts along with a mock check worth N25 million, whereas the individual holding the Guinness World Record offered a painting created by himself alongside his official recognition certificate.

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