Delta Honours Autistic Teen Cyclist On Awareness Ride

The Delta State Government on Sunday welcomed 16-year-old autistic cyclist Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke during a brief stop in Asaba on his long-distance endurance ride.

Kanyeyachukwu, from Enugu State, arrived with his parents, members of the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Foundation, cycling officials, and a medical support team. The visit formed part of his journey from Enugu through Anambra, with Lagos as the final destination.

At the Government House, the cyclist and his entourage were received by the wife of the Delta governor, Mrs. Tobore Oborevwori, alongside senior officials including Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Assembly member Mrs. Bridget Anyafulu, and commissioner for Women Affairs, Ms. Pat Ajudua.

Mrs. Oborevwori described the visit as “both inspiring and symbolic,” praising Kanyeyachukwu’s courage and determination. She noted that his endurance ride, Ride with Kanye, aims to raise awareness about autism.

“His achievements, including recognition in the Guinness World Record, highlight his talents in the arts and his passion for cycling,” she said. She further emphasised that the event aligned with her You Matter Charity Foundation, which promotes inclusion and recognises every individual’s value.

“This event celebrates excellence, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit, not merely a young person with special needs,” Mrs. Oborevwori added. She also commended Kanyeyachukwu’s parents for their dedication and belief in his abilities, assuring continued support for future milestones, including a potential Guinness World Record return.

Dr. Emu highlighted the significance of the You Matter initiative in supporting individuals who excel despite challenges. “His journey is a clear example of the impact of such support,” he said, praising the teen’s parents amid Nigeria’s limited facilities for special needs children.

Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze, patron of the Autism Foundation, described Kanyeyachukwu’s story as “deeply inspiring,” noting his artistic talent emerged at age three. “He created the world’s largest artistic painting thanks to family encouragement,” he said, stressing that neglect could have hindered his achievements. He added that the teen’s cycling challenge could make him one of the youngest to complete an Enugu-to-Lagos journey.

The visit’s highlight was the presentation of a symbolic N10 million cheque to support Kanyeyachukwu’s advocacy and ongoing journey. His 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.