Oluremi Tinubu has gifted N25 million to Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a 15-year-old autistic artist who set a new Guinness World Record (GWR) for largest art canvas.
Kanyeyachukwu achieved the feat in November 2024 with a painting measuring 12,304 square meters, featuring a multicolored autism awareness ribbon surrounded by emojis.
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterised by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.
Receiving Kanyeyachukwu in her office on Monday, the president’s wife described his achievement as heroic and applauded his creativity despite living with autism.
The first lady also recommended that the cash prize be used to support his education.
“I want to thank the parents for loving him. Mental health challenges occur in many very intelligent children,” she said.
“I am aware of the many challenges of autism and I have written a book to also raise awareness for autism.
“I want to use this medium to send a message to other parents who have children with special needs to focus on their children’s skills and high points. These special needs children usually have a single interest, so parents should help them push towards their preferred skills and goals.
“Thank you for all your efforts towards taking Kanye to win the Guinness World Record. Tuesday is Children’s Day, and there couldn’t have been a better day than today to recognize Kanye.”
Hannatu Musawa, minister of art, culture, tourism and the creative economy, represented by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Mukhtar Muhammed, praised the first lady’s commitment to youth empowerment.
“Despite being autistic, his achievement is a beacon of hope for countless other young Nigerians aspiring to make their mark in the world of art and culture,” she said.
“Through the Renewed Hope Initiative that focuses on women and youth empowerment, the First Lady has championed several programs that bridge the gap between potential and opportunity, ensuring that no talent goes unnoticed and no dream remains unfulfilled”.
The first lady presented the teenager with a symbolic cheque of N25 million and several gifts.
Kanyeyachukwu, in return, presented a painting and a copy of his GWR certificate.
