By Izunna Okafor, Awka
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has extended warm congratulations to 15-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, an indigene of the state, for etching his name into global history by breaking a Guinness World Record for painting the largest art canvas in the world by an individual.
Giving the commendations through the State Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Comrade Donatus Onyenji, during the official unveiling of the massive artwork at the Eagle Square in Abuja, Governor Soludo described Kanyeyachukwu’s feat as extraordinary and a powerful inspiration, particularly to the younger generation.
Held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, the event, which coincided with the celebration of World Autism Day, attracted dignitaries from across the globe, who were present to witness the occasion.
Governor Soludo, who was represented by Commissioner Onyenji at event, while hailing the teenage prodigy as a source of pride to Anambra State and Nigeria at large, further extolled his uncommon determination, creative brilliance, and resilience, particularly as a young artist living with autism. He noted that Kanye’s triumph over developmental challenges to set a world record is a proof that there’s potential that lies within every child, regardless of circumstances.
The Governor called for the creation of more inclusive and nurturing environments to identify, encourage, and support the talents of children, especially those with special needs.
“Children like Kanyeyachukwu deserve not only our admiration but also targeted policies that help harness their unique gifts,” he added.
He further noted that the theme of this year’s World Autism Day, “Impossibility Is a Myth,” perfectly mirrored the story of Kanyeyachukwu, whose record-breaking artwork now stands as a physical embodiment of resilience, creativity, and hope.
This reporter, Izunna Okafor, gathered that Kanyeyachukwu, who is the grandson of former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Chief Simon Okeke (Ochendo Amichi), is no stranger to global acclaim. At just eight years old, he received the prestigious Flame of Peace Award from the Archduke and Archduchess of Austria, among several other national and international recognitions.
This latest achievement, officially confirmed by the Guinness World Records team during the Abuja event, has further cemented his reputation as a rising star in the global art scene and a beacon of possibility for young creatives, especially those with autism.
Other prominent figures at the event included the Honourable Minister for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musawa; the Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Senator Dr. Victor Umeh; Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria; representatives of the United Nations, and various national and international organisations, among others.
The colourful occasion featured goodwill messages, a symbolic walk on the massive canvas, and calls for greater global awareness on autism, talent development, and inclusive cultural policies.
The media space has, however, remained awash with the news, as Kanyeyachukwu’s story continues to spark conversations on the power of art and the importance of recognizing the abilities in disability; even as Governor Soludo and many others affirm that Anambra remains a land of limitless possibilities.
