Delta State Government Pays Tribute to Teenage Cyclist with Autism on Awareness Journey

The Delta State government provided a warm welcome to 16-year-old autistic cyclist Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke on Sunday, as he made a brief stop in Asaba during his endurance journey, accompanied by his parents and a team of supporters.

n

Kanyeyachukwu, who hails from Enugu State, was joined by members of the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Foundation, cycling officials, and a medical support team, as he continues his long-distance ride from Enugu through Anambra, with Lagos as his final destination.

n

The visit to the Government House in Asaba was a significant part of his journey, where he was received by the Governor’s wife, Mrs. Tobore Oborevwori, who was joined by senior officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu.

n

Other notable officials present at the reception included the Assembly member, Mrs. Bridget Anyafulu, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ms. Pat Ajudua, who all came to show their support for Kanyeyachukwu’s remarkable endeavor.

n

Mrs. Oborevwori described Kanyeyachukwu’s visit as both inspiring and symbolic, praising his courage and determination, and noting that his endurance ride, ‘Ride with Kanye,’ aims to raise awareness about autism and its effects on individuals and families.

n

She highlighted Kanyeyachukwu’s impressive achievements, including his recognition in the Guinness World Record, which showcases his exceptional talents in the arts and passion for cycling, and demonstrates his potential to inspire and positively influence society.

n

Mrs. Oborevwori emphasized that Kanyeyachukwu’s visit aligns with her ‘You Matter Charity Foundation’, which promotes inclusion and recognizes every individual’s value, and celebrates excellence, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit.

n

She assured Kanyeyachukwu of continued support from her foundation, commending his parents for their dedication and belief in his abilities, and expressing optimism about his future milestones, including a possible return to the Guinness World Records.

n

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, also praised Kanyeyachukwu’s parents, noting that his journey is a clear example of the impact of support and dedication, despite the limited facilities for special needs children in Nigeria.

n

Dr. Emu reiterated the state government’s commitment to backing awareness campaigns and social advocacy initiatives, citing similar long-distance cycling efforts for cancer awareness, and emphasizing the importance of supporting individuals who excel in spite of challenges.

n

Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze, patron of the Autism Foundation, described Kanyeyachukwu’s story as deeply inspiring, noting that his artistic talent emerged at the age of three, and that he created the world’s largest artistic painting thanks to family encouragement.

n

Chief Nduka-Eze stressed that neglect could have hindered Kanyeyachukwu’s achievements, but instead, his family’s support has enabled him to thrive, and his cycling challenge could make him one of the youngest to complete an Enugu-to-Lagos journey.

n

Kanyeyachukwu’s father expressed gratitude to the state government and the governor’s wife for the warm reception, describing her as compassionate and committed to vulnerable groups, and appreciative of the support she has shown to his son.

n

The highlight of the visit was the presentation of a symbolic N10 million cheque to support Kanyeyachukwu’s advocacy and ongoing journey, a gesture that demonstrates the state government’s commitment to supporting individuals with special needs and promoting awareness about autism.