The talented Nigerian youth, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, has been awarded for his exceptional contributions to the global art community and his role as a distinguished ambassador for Nigeria at the Nigerian Independence Day Celebration and S.P.O.R.E. Leader’s Summit 2023. The event, themed “Charting the Course for a New Nigeria,” took place in Newark, New Jersey, United States of America.
In a remarkable display of artistic prowess and resilience, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke has demonstrated creativity, hope, and inspiration to children in Nigeria and worldwide, shattering stereotypes and proving that “Impossibility is Nothing.” His portfolio, featuring an array of works showcased in galleries across different countries, has earned him the endearing title of the “Young Picasso.”
The event, held at the Saint Demetrius Community Center on Roosevelt Ave in Carteret, New Jersey, aimed to recognize exceptional Nigerians who have contributed significantly to the positive growth, perception, and outlook of the country. Known as “The New Nigeria S.P.O.R.E. initiative,” the event underscored Nigeria’s dedication to strategic reforms, focusing on fostering economic growth and prosperity for its people.
Nike Awoleye, Chief Executive Officer of Lord and Nike’s, emphasized the importance of acknowledging those who have provided insights and suggestions that can shape Nigeria’s future. She expressed, “At this event, we are recognizing individuals who have contributed valuable insights that have the potential to shape Nigeria’s destiny. Together, through this summit, Lord & Nike’s believes that collaboration will pave the way for a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria—a beacon of hope and progress for its citizens.”
Speaking about the recipient of the award, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, Nike Awoleye added, “Kanye has shown promise from a very young age. I have followed his exhibitions and events where he showcased his work, and he is one of the few Nigerian children in the art world who has fantastically represented the country. This award and recognition are well-deserved.”
Ras Jua Baraka, Mayor of Newark, commented on the event, stating, “We are pleased to have Nigerians in New Jersey and to host this event. We are delighted to be associated with an event that recognizes not only contributions to Nigeria but also to humanity as a whole. We extend our congratulations to the recipients and believe that more remarkable achievements are on the horizon.”
“I commend Kanye for his unwavering commitment, hard work, and dedication at every stage of his journey. We take pride in recognizing you for the valuable contributions you have already made and will undoubtedly continue to make. Your steadfast commitment to building a solid foundation and upholding ethical values is truly commendable. I am confident that you will remain a source of inspiration for all of us, and your brightest days are yet to come,” expressed the Mayor of Newark
Silvia Tagbo Okeke, Kanyeyachukwu’s mother, expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We are grateful for this recognition, regardless of the challenges Kanye has faced as a child. We are happy that he has shown great promise in the art world and has become a beacon of inspiration, especially for autistic children worldwide.”
Hailing from Amichi, Nnewi South LGA of Anambra State, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke was born in November 2009 in Canada to Mr. and Mrs. Tagbo Okeke. His remarkable artistic works have adorned the walls of numerous galleries and museums across the globe.
In September 2018, Kanyeyachukwu’s art, alongside that of three other talented Nigerian artists, was featured at the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) Vienna annual art exhibition. The exhibition, titled “Scenes of Peace,” showcased works by Ben Ibebe, Kaltume Gana, and Amedu Iklaga.
This recognition event was part of Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration and was held in conjunction with “The New Nigeria S.P.O.R.E. (Strategic Plan on Reform for the Economy) Leader’s Summit and Celebration,” scheduled for October 29, 2023. The event’s primary focus is to stimulate discussions and foster partnerships to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation, creating a more vibrant and prosperous nation.
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