Delta First Lady Supports Autistic Cyclist, Donates N10 million For Advocacy

The Wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, has thrown her weight behind an autistic cyclist and Guinness World Record holder, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, with a donation of N10 million to support his advocacy and foundation.

The young champion is riding from Enugu to Lagos, drawing attention to the capabilities of individuals living with developmental differences.

Konnichiwa, a 14-year-old autistic artist and endurance cyclist, was received alongside a team of cyclists in Asaba, during his ongoing “Ride for Autism” campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and advocating for better support systems for children with autism.

Speaking at the event, Deaconess Oborevwori, founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, expressed deep admiration for the teenager’s courage and resilience, describing his feat as “mind-blowing” for someone of his age and condition.

She emphasised that his journey represents not a limitation, but a powerful example of excellence, determination and the strength of inclusion.

“For a 14-year-old autistic young man who has made history in the Guinness World Records to embark on such a demanding journey is truly inspiring.

“Today, we celebrate not just a young man with special needs, but resilience, courage, and the power of inclusion,” she stated.

She commended his parents, Tagbo Okeke and Sylvia Tagbo-Okeke, for their support and belief in his dreams, describing their dedication as instrumental to his success.

She encouraged them to remain steadfast, assuring them that their efforts would continue to yield positive results.

The First Lady also used the occasion to reaffirm her commitment to expanding support for children with special needs in Delta State through her foundation, pledging to put structures in place that will enhance care, inclusion, and opportunities for them to thrive.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), Kingsley Emu, in a welcome address, described the visit as a significant moment for the state, commending the courage of the young cyclist and the commitment of his family.

He noted that Delta remains open to initiatives that promote social impact and inclusivity, especially those championing vulnerable groups.

A member of the delegation, Chucks Ndukaeze, gave a moving account of Kanyeyachukwu’s journey, highlighting how the teenager began painting at the age of three and gradually developed exceptional artistic abilities despite being on the autism spectrum.

According to him, what many initially saw as a limitation has evolved into a powerful source of inspiration, not just for his family but for countless others across the country.

Ndukaeze added that the foundation’s focus is to train no fewer than 1,000 autism caregivers across Nigeria, emphasising that building a strong network of trained caregivers is critical to improving the quality of life for children with autism and ensuring families receive the support they need.

Kanyeyachukwu’s parents, Tagbo Okeke and Sylvia Tagbo-Okeke, appreciated the state government for the warm reception and the First Lady’s foundation, the You Matter Charity Foundation, for its focus on the care of autistic children and children with special needs.