A 16-year-old autistic teenager, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, has achieved a second Guinness World Record, emerging as the youngest person to cycle 100 miles (160.9 kilometres), in a feat that has drawn national recognition and renewed advocacy for autism awareness.
Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, commended the teenager’s determination and resilience, describing the achievement as a powerful testament to the idea that ability can thrive beyond disability.
Kanyeyachukwu began the endurance ride from Enugu State on March 14, 2026, travelling across seven states before completing the journey in Lagos on April 2, 2026, to mark World Autism Awareness Day. The milestone adds to his earlier global recognition in 2025 for creating the largest painting on canvas by an individual, a record unveiled in Abuja.
Speaking on the achievement, Musawa said the teenager’s journey represents more than a physical feat, noting that it reflects courage, creativity, and a quiet determination that challenges societal expectations. She added that his accomplishments highlight the importance of inclusion within Nigeria’s growing creative economy.
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The minister pledged continued government support for initiatives that promote creativity and advocacy, including plans to host national exhibitions of Kanyeyachukwu’s artwork and youth-focused programmes that connect artistic expression with social awareness.
She also commended Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for receiving the young record holder and supporting autism advocacy with a N200 million pledge to the Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke Foundation.
According to the ministry, there are plans to host the teenager in Abuja for a youth creativity forum aimed at promoting non-verbal expression, storytelling through endurance, and broader participation in the arts and tourism sectors.
Beyond his records, Kanyeyachukwu continues to advocate for inclusion and policy support for families living with autism. He is also leading a fundraising campaign to train 1,000 caregivers, further strengthening awareness and support systems across Nigeria.
His journey from canvas to cross-country cycling has placed him among Nigeria’s most inspiring young figures, using personal achievement to challenge stigma and expand opportunities for others.
