World Autism Day was celebrated on 2nd of April, this day is to bring to the fore the challenges, awareness and management of autistic individual in the society. In line with this, Kanye Tagbo Okeke, a very creative Nigerian child who has constantly demonstrated over the years that autistic children do not have spiritual problem recently concluded a one-week art exhibition at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja. This art exhibition is to bring more awareness to autism in Nigeria.
Autism has always been a challenge for many Nigerians especially parents, schools and caregivers in a country that is very religious. Most folks will attribute autism to spiritual thing. Having seen this,
This is the third edition of Kanye’s Exhibition in the country in support of autism, themed “No Child Left Behind”, the exhibition brought under a roof the finest art collection which is more od abstract paintings of the child prodigy under one roof. Described as fantastic and creative by art lovers, connoisseurs and collectors. The works brought to fore Kanye’s dexterity with brushes on canvass.
Speaking at the event, Mariam Shuaibu, representing the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs said, we believe that this exhibition is in line with the child right act of the country. We believe in promoting the welfare and right of children as it is in Child’s Right 2003. We will sensitise the people and empower their parents. Attention should be focused in identifying these children’s talents. “
It is gives me great pleasure to be part of this exhibition and I will want to use this opportunity to appreciate the wonderful parents for nurturing this boy to this height. Kanye has showcased his gift of arts irrespective of his challenges. As you are aware autism is one of the developmental challenges but Kanye has show that this narrative can be changed”
Doris Izuwah, Director of OLG Autism and Kanye’s Doctor said ” there is inclusion in treatment, autism isn’t just a one man’s business. We need to help our children have access to multi disciplinary approach such as speech therapy, music and art. I commend the Tagbo Okekes family for their understanding and supporting Kanye’s schedule and this has opened doors to others. With their efforts a lot has been known and this has helped in the autism awareness. “
Muhammed Sulieman, the President of Society of Nigerian Artists added that ” Welcome to Kanye’s world and life, it is a reflection of his life and creativity. Kanye must have been thought very well to bring forth these works. Kanye isn’t fighting the ordinary battles you are fighting on daily basis. From age eight, Kanye’s arts have been revolutionary. He is such an amazing artist. He is definition of things that he sees everyday and a representation of things that are in colours and shapes which is creative. “
Tagbo Okeke, the father of Kanye also added that ” We understand the importance of autism awareness that we have decided to build Kanye’s Autism Society to assist in the awareness and intervention in autism cases in the country. we have seen a lot of cases where one of the children was about to be strangled just because he has autism, we have to intervene, what we do is to bring these children with special needs and put them on a platform that will take care of their needs. We encourage people to adopt a child, not that we are telling you to take the child home but we want you to be part of the process.”
Kanye has been called a prodigy over the years for his dexterity and creativity, he has exhibited across the globe in major cities like Vienna, Austria where he was recognised with an Award Flame of Peace and also in New York, UNICEF etc. Kanye has been described as one of the creative children to ever come out Nigeria and his art works are hanging in prestigious places around the world. Kanye is an autistic child of 12 years and a testament of what kids with autism can achieved if properly guided and nurtured.
