The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has donated ₦20 million to support the Cycling for Autism with KanyeChukwu initiative, aimed at raising awareness about autism across Nigeria.
Abiodun made the donation on Tuesday while receiving members of the initiative at his office in Oke-Mosan. He emphasized that autism is not a disease but a unique condition that requires understanding, patience, and dedicated care.
The initiative is championed by 16-year-old Nigerian artist and autism advocate, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, who holds the 2025 Guinness World Records title for creating the world’s largest art canvas in Abuja. Diagnosed with non-verbal autism, he communicates through abstract art.
Describing children with autism as “special,” the governor noted that many possess exceptional talents that can only be uncovered through patience and intentional support. He commended the teenager’s parents for nurturing his abilities and refusing to see his condition as a limitation.
“Your son has distinguished himself in the world of art at a very young age. These achievements are not accidental but the result of deliberate efforts to bring out the best in him,” Abiodun said.
He urged other parents of children with autism to identify and develop their children’s unique talents rather than allowing them to remain idle, stressing that autism should not be viewed as a barrier but as an opportunity to unlock hidden potential.
The governor also lauded the Cycling for Autism team for their advocacy efforts, noting that their visit had deepened his understanding of autism and the need for greater public awareness.
Earlier, the father of the young artist, Mr. Tagbo Okeke, highlighted the challenges associated with managing autism, describing it as a condition that requires significant resources and specialized care.
He pointed to the shortage of trained caregivers in Nigeria and explained that the initiative is currently touring states, from Enugu State to Lagos State, to reach rural communities, schools, and churches with awareness campaigns.
According to him, the project, in partnership with the Cycling Federation of Nigeria, aims to cover over 600 kilometres nationwide while also raising funds to train caregivers.
“Our goal is to begin with the training of 1,000 autism caregivers this year,” he said.
