Autism: FG Recommits To Inclusive Health, Social Systems Using Arts

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing inclusive health and social systems; fostering multisectoral collaboration and supporting initiatives that use creative arts as pathways to inclusion, empowerment and community integration.

The minister of state, Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq kunle Salako stated this at Myth Exhibition and Policy Discourse Organised by the Kenyeyachukwu Autism Society in collaboration with the National Assembly Library, held in Abuja on Tuesday.

The event featured the works of Kanyeyachukwu, a young autistic artist who recently earned a Guinness World Record for creating the largest painting on canvas.

Salako said the ministry considered organisations like the Kenyeyachukwu Autism Society as vital partners in its resolve to strengthen policies and programmes that support mental health, disability inclusion and social welfare.

“Your work aligns with our national commitment to ensure that all persons regardless of diagnosis, condition or ability have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to national development. The theme of this gathering ‘Art as a Catalyst for Fostering Inclusion in Nation Building’ could not be more fitting.

“Around the world, creative expression has become a powerful bridge connecting individuals, communities, and cultures. For persons with autism, art provides a unique platform to communicate, to heal, to be seen, and to be understood. It creates opportunities for empowerment, acceptance and the celebration of diverse abilities.

“Today’s exhibition highlights the extraordinary talents of individuals whose artistic expressions remind us that inclusion is not merely a policy aspiration, but a lived experience we must intentionally nurture.
Art invites us to look beyond labels and stereotypes, to embrace the beauty of difference, and to recognise the potential within every Nigerian,”he added.

In his remark, the executive secretary, National Assembly Library Trust Fund, Hon. Henry Nwauba pledged the organisation’s
commitment to supporting programmes that promote inclusion and amplify the voices of marginalised groups.

“Today’s exhibition is more than just an art showcase. It draws attention to the challenges facing children with autism. While a dedicated autism bill has not yet been passed, the National Assembly supports any policy that strengthens inclusion. Discussions like these can help shape future legislation,” Nwauba stated.

The father of Kanyeyachukwu, Tagbo-Okeke said the exhibition was part of the family’s ongoing effort to use their child’s talent as a platform for autism advocacy.

Oke stated that Kanyeyachukwu, fondly called Kanye started painting at five years old, and his artwork has since become a tool for raising awareness and driving social impact.

“In collaboration with the National Assembly Library, we organized this exhibition to spark conversation about autism, special needs, and the kind of legislation families urgently require,” he said.

Oke said many children need therapies and interventions, but access is limited due to high costs,
emphasising the importance of laws guaranteeing education, job opportunities, affordable healthcare and therapy for individuals with autism and other neurological conditions.

“This exhibition is more than a display of Kanye’s talent, it is a platform to generate meaningful dialogue and practical solutions. Recommendations from today’s discussions will be presented to the National Assembly,” he added.

For her part, founder of the RBM Autism Foundation, Maria Okafor, said the exhibition showcases the power of creative expression and storytelling for children living with autism.

She called for national awareness campaigns led by the government organizations, noting that social stigma often discourages parents from seeking support for their children.

Okafor urged authorities to promote inclusive initiatives that foster understanding and acceptance nationwide.

“Many children on the spectrum face challenges with verbal communication. Artistic avenues like painting, music, and crafts allow them to connect and communicate with the world.

“Kanye is a prime example of this. With his parents’ support, his talent has grown to the point of achieving a Guinness World Record,” Okafor said.