Peter Obi Commends Kanyeyachukwu Okeke’s Record-Breaking Achievement at World Autism Awareness Day

Peter Obi Commends Kanyeyachukwu Okeke’s Record-Breaking Achievement at World Autism Awareness Day

 

The World Autism Awareness Day celebration at Eagles Square, Abuja, was marked by a remarkable showcase of talent, resilience, and determination, with a special focus on the achievements of Guinness World Record holder Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke.

The event drew a diverse crowd, including government officials, disability rights advocates, educators, parents, and children with special needs. Attendees were treated to a vibrant atmosphere filled with inspiring speeches, artistic performances, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting awareness and inclusivity for persons with autism. The venue was adorned with colorful banners and artwork created by individuals with special abilities, further emphasizing the theme of empowerment and creativity.

Peter Obi, the presidential hopeful of the Labour Party, attended the event and lauded Kanyeyachukwu’s extraordinary feat in painting on canvas. The young artist set a new global record by creating the largest art canvas, measuring an astonishing 12,303.87m² in just four months, surpassing the previous record of 9,652m², which was accomplished in seven months by another individual.

Speaking at the event, Obi emphasized the crucial role of youth-led initiatives in fostering a more inclusive and progressive society. He highlighted that Kanyeyachukwu’s achievement serves as a testament to the boundless potential that exists within every individual, regardless of the challenges they face.

“Kanyeyachukwu’s story is not just an inspiration; it is proof that with determination, encouragement, and the right opportunities, greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places,” Obi stated. “His success reinforces the urgent need for inclusivity, support, and opportunities for persons with special abilities.”

Obi called for a stronger commitment to nurturing talent, creativity, and hard work, urging society to recognize and celebrate individuals of all abilities. He reiterated the need for continued investment in fundamental pillars of human development, including education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

“As a nation, we must remain committed to building a society that leaves no one behind,” he added. “By fostering an inclusive environment, we can ensure that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

The World Autism Awareness Day event served as a powerful reminder of the need for continuous advocacy and action to create an inclusive society where every person, regardless of their abilities, can achieve their full potential. The event concluded with a heartfelt applause for Kanyeyachukwu and other talented individuals who showcased their artistic abilities, reinforcing the importance of supporting and celebrating neurodivergent individuals in all spheres of life.

Anthony Emeka Nwosu.

Supporting World Autism Day: Guarantee Trust Bank & H Dubai Collaborate with Kanye Tagbo Okeke’s Art Exhibition

Supporting World Autism Day: Guarantee Trust Bank & H Dubai Collaborate with Kanye Tagbo Okeke’s Art Exhibition

 

 

In observance of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2 and the dedicated month for Autism, GT Bank Nigeria partnered with acclaimed artist Kanye Tagbo Okeke for his latest international exhibition in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This collaborative effort served as a celebration of World Autism Day 2024.

The H Dubai proudly partnered with Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, a young artist defying the odds of autism, to showcase a selection of his captivating artworks at the hotel. The exhibition, titled “Spectrum Splendor: A Young Artist’s Journey,” featured 20 exceptional pieces by the Nigerian artist and ran from April 1 to April 5. Its objective was to inspire and promote inclusion through the medium of art.

As part of The H Dubai’s commitment to inclusivity, the hotel provided specialized training to staff sensitized to the diverse needs of guests, particularly ensuring that individuals on the autism spectrum felt welcomed and supported during their stay.

Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, an award-winning artist making waves in Nigeria and beyond, expressed, “Art has been my voice, allowing me to express myself in ways I couldn’t otherwise. I hope my journey inspires others and helps raise awareness about autism.”

GT Bank Nigeria emphasized, “Autism has a spectrum of colors, and therein lies the beauty of diversity and the potential within every individual. Be a voice for people living with autism.”

The remarkable young artist had already garnered awards, with his pieces displayed in galleries and museums across the US, Europe, Nigeria, and other parts of Africa, as well as in private collections. He had been recognized by ATIM Top 60 Masters and received the Artist of the Year award at the African Contemporary Art Festival.

Kanye’s art not only inspired but also promoted inclusion, making The H Dubai, the first autism-certified hotel in Dubai, an ideal venue for his exhibition.

The exhibition concluded on April 5, 2024. Guests enamored with particular art pieces were encouraged to make purchases, with a percentage of proceeds from all sales donated to the Dubai Autism Centre.

On April 5, Kanye led a workshop where he personally guided and inspired children from the Dubai Autism Center to create their own beautiful works of art.

Sophie Blondel, General Manager of The H Dubai, expressed, “Kanye’s remarkable journey as a young artist living with autism aligned perfectly with our vision. By showcasing his works, we aimed to spark meaningful conversations about autism, break down stereotypes, and foster a culture of inclusivity in our community.”

For more information about Kanye Tagbo Okeke and his artistic journey, visitors were directed to his Instagram @kanye_tagbo.

 

How Kanye Is Bringing Awareness To Autism Using Art Exhibitions – Anthony Nwosu

How Kanye Is Bringing Awareness To Autism Using Art Exhibitions – Anthony Nwosu

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.