By: Elizabeth Ide
The Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, has backed the autism awareness campaign of Guinness World Record holder, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, with a donation of N10 million in support of his advocacy and foundation.
Kanyeyachukwu, a 14-year-old autistic artist and endurance cyclist, was received alongside a team of cyclists at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, during his ongoing “Ride for Autism” campaign. The nationwide initiative is aimed at raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and advocating for better support systems for children living with autism. The young champion is currently cycling from Enugu to Lagos, drawing attention to the capabilities and potential of individuals with developmental differences.
Speaking at the event, Oborevwori, who is the founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, expressed deep admiration for the teenager’s courage and resilience, describing his feat as “mind-blowing” for someone of his age and condition. She noted that his journey is not a limitation, but a powerful example of excellence, determination, and the strength of inclusion.
“For a fourteen-year-old autistic young man who has made history in the Guinness World Records to embark on such a demanding journey is truly inspiring.
“Today, we celebrate not just a young man with special needs, but resilience, courage, and the power of inclusion,” she stated.
The First Lady commended his parents, Tagbo Okeke and Sylvia Tagbo-Okeke, for their unwavering support and belief in his dreams, describing their dedication as instrumental to his success. She encouraged them to remain steadfast, assuring them that their efforts would continue to yield positive results.
She also reaffirmed her commitment to expanding support for children with special needs in Delta State through her foundation, pledging to put structures in place that will enhance care, inclusion, and opportunities for them to thrive.
Earlier, the Secretary to the Delta State Government, Kingsley Emu, in a welcome address, described the visit as a significant moment for the state, commending the courage of the young cyclist and the commitment of his family. He noted that Delta remains open to initiatives that promote social impact and inclusivity, especially those championing vulnerable groups.
A member of the delegation, Chucks Ndukaeze, gave a detailed account of Kanyeyachukwu’s journey, highlighting how the teenager began painting at the age of three and gradually developed exceptional artistic abilities despite being on the autism spectrum. According to him, what many initially saw as a limitation has evolved into a powerful source of inspiration, not just for his family but for countless others across the country.
Ndukaeze explained that the endurance ride is more than a physical challenge, describing it as a national advocacy effort designed to change perceptions about autism and showcase the immense potential of children with special needs when given the right support.
He further disclosed that the foundation’s focus includes training no fewer than 1,000 autism caregivers across Nigeria, stressing that building a strong network of trained caregivers is essential to improving the quality of life for children with autism and supporting their families.
Kanyeyachukwu’s parents, Tagbo Okeke and Sylvia Tagbo-Okeke, appreciated the Delta State Government for the warm reception and commended the First Lady’s foundation, the You Matter Charity Foundation, for its commitment to the care and support of autistic children and others with special needs.