Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has congratulated 16-year-old non-verbal autistic teenager, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, on achieving his second Guinness World Record — this time as the youngest person to cycle 100 miles (160.9 km).
The feat marks Kanyeyachukwu’s second certified Guinness World Record, following his historic recognition last year for the largest painting on canvas by an individual, unveiled in Abuja. Together, the two records establish him as one of Nigeria’s most remarkable young achievers. This was contained in a statement signed by Nneka Ikem-Anibeze, Ph.D, SA Media, and Publicity, Office of the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.
According to the statement, Kanyeyachukwu set off from Enugu State on 14 March 2026, crossed seven states, and completed the journey in Lagos on World Autism Awareness Day, 2 April 2026 — a fitting and powerful conclusion to a ride dedicated to raising awareness for autism.
Congratulating the teenager, Minister Musawa said, “Kanyeyachukwu’s journey crosses geography and expectation. From canvas to highway, he carries Enugu’s spirit through seven states to Lagos — stamina, imagination, and quiet courage in every mile. He reminds us that the creative economy includes every voice and every way of moving through the world.”
The Minister pledged the Ministry’s support for national exhibitions of Kanyeyachukwu’s artwork and for youth programmes that link creativity with advocacy, including autism awareness.
Minister Musawa also commended His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, for the warm reception accorded to Kanyeyachukwu and lauded his pledge of ₦200 million for autism advocacy and the Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke Foundation.
The Ministry will host Kanyeyachukwu in Abuja for a youth creativity forum highlighting non-verbal expression, endurance storytelling, and community participation in the arts and tourism sectors.
Kanyeyachukwu strives to break stigma, advocate inclusion, and government policies to help families and caregiving . He’s also fundraising to train 1000 caregivers
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