“You are brave, audacious, and tenacious. Congratulations on your recognition. Your story has made history, and Nigeria is proud of you,” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu shared in honor of 15-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, the Nigerian teenager with autism who has earned a Guinness World Record.
Kanyeyachukwu made history by setting the record for the largest painting on canvas by an individual. His monumental artwork, titled ‘Impossibility is a Myth’, was created to raise awareness about autism and mental health.
On November 24, 2024, Kanyeyachukwu shattered the previous record by painting across 12,303.87 square metres, surpassing the former record of 9,632 square metres.
The unveiling of his extraordinary work took place on April 2, 2025, at Eagle Square in Abuja, in celebration of World Autism Awareness Day. It was an emotional and proud moment, attended by government officials, artists, and supporters. The gathering was a testament to the impact of Kanyeyachukwu’s achievement.
Notable attendees included the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Director-General of the National Art Gallery, Ahmed Bashir Sodangi, Peter Obi, Dbanj, and artist Fola David.
The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, described the painting as more than just a record-breaking feat, calling it a “masterpiece that broke barriers.” He also emphasized the importance of disability inclusion in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in ensuring that young individuals like Kanyeyachukwu have access to education, opportunities, and employment.
Scroll down to view highlights from the unveiling at Eagle Square and celebrate this remarkable achievement.
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