Manny Ita –
Sixteen-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke has achieved another remarkable milestone, securing his second Guinness World Record after completing a historic 100-mile autism awareness bike ride from Enugu to Lagos.
The teenager, who had earlier gained global recognition for creating the largest individual canvas painting, undertook the endurance ride as part of efforts to raise awareness about autism and advocate for greater inclusion and support for individuals on the spectrum.
The journey, which spanned multiple states and lasted several days, drew widespread attention and support from communities, advocacy groups, and well-wishers who hailed his resilience and commitment to a social cause.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in response to the feat, announced a ₦200 million pledge toward autism advocacy initiatives in honour of the young record holder. The funding is expected to support programmes focused on awareness, education, and improved care for individuals living with autism.
Stakeholders in the health and advocacy space have described the development as a major boost for autism awareness in Nigeria, where support systems and public understanding of the condition remain limited.
Kanyeyachukwu’s achievement has been widely celebrated as a symbol of determination and purpose, with many noting that his accomplishments continue to challenge stereotypes while inspiring young Nigerians to pursue impactful goals.
Advocates say the combination of his global recognition and the government’s financial commitment could help drive policy attention, increased funding, and broader societal acceptance for people living with autism across the country.
