The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has donated N20 million to the Cycling for Autism with KanyeChukwu initiative, reinforcing his administration’s support for raising awareness about autism across Nigeria.
The donation was presented on Tuesday at the Governor’s office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, during a meeting with the initiative’s team. Governor Abiodun described autism not as a disease but as a special condition that requires understanding, patience, and dedicated care.
Master Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a 16-year-old painter and autism awareness advocate, holds the 2025 Guinness World Record for the largest art canvas created in Abuja. Diagnosed with non-verbal autism, he communicates through vibrant abstract art, demonstrating exceptional talent from a young age.
“Children with autism are special. Discovering their unique abilities takes diligence and patience. Many are gifted beyond the ordinary,” Governor Abiodun said, commending Master Kanye’s parents for refusing to see his condition as a limitation.
The governor noted that the young artist’s achievements—including over 400 paintings, international exhibitions, and the Austrian Flame of Peace Award at age eight—reflect deliberate efforts by his family to nurture his talents. He encouraged parents of children with autism to identify and develop their children’s abilities rather than allowing them to remain idle.
Mr. Tagbo Okeke, Master Kanye’s father, emphasized that autism is not a disease but a condition that requires proper care, which can be costly.
He highlighted the shortage of trained caregivers in Nigeria and explained that the Cycling for Autism initiative is spreading awareness nationwide, reaching rural communities, schools, and churches.
“Our goal is to train 1,000 autism caregivers this year, partnering with the Cycling Federation of Nigeria and covering over 600 kilometres across the country,” he added.
Governor Abiodun praised the initiative for broadening his understanding of autism and reiterated that with support, children like Master Kanye can excel in art, sports, and other fields, demonstrating that autism should not be seen as a limitation but as an opportunity to unlock hidden potential.
