15-year-old Nigerian boy sets GWR with largest art canvas

As Nigeria marked World Autism Day 2025 on Wednesday, 15-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, an autistic artist, achieved a historic milestone by setting a new Guinness World Record.

His artwork, spanning an impressive 12,303.87 square metres (132,437 square feet and 116.85 square inches), was unveiled at Eagle Square in Abuja.

Tagbo-Okeke, a native of Anambra State, received the official Guinness World Records certificate following the presentation of his paintings. His remarkable artistic talent has been widely recognised in the art world, with support from the Zeebah Foundation and MTN Nigeria.

The prestigious event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Osama of Asaba, Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze; Dr Silva Okeke, known as the “Mother of Art Guinness World Records”; Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa; Mr Tagbo Okeke; former Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Chief Simon Okeke; Senator Victor Umeh; 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi; and Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, represented by Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole.

Also in attendance were traditional rulers, civil society organisations, entertainment stars, artists, persons with disabilities, National Youth Service Corps members, media representatives, and students.

The theme for World Autism Day 2025, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” underscored the importance of inclusion and empowerment for individuals with autism.

Guinness World Records adjudicator, Mr Glenn Pollard, expressed his excitement over Tagbo-Okeke’s extraordinary achievement, noting that the young artist had been working on the paintings since November 2024.

This record-breaking accomplishment not only highlights Tagbo-Okeke’s talent but also serves as an inspiration for the autism community and the broader creative industry.

Pollard said: “Your painting on the canvas of 12,303.87 m² smashed all records in November last year.

“This is your certificate, Kanye, for this fantastic record. On behalf of Guinness World Records, I will say you were exceptionally amazing and well done for your achievement.”

Meanwhile, the certificate was officially presented to Tagbo-Okeke by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.

In her remarks, Musawa underscored that, “He (Tagbo-Okeke) has turned his creativity into a powerful voice for inclusion, proving that talent has no boundaries, and indeed, impossibilities.”

She further stated: “Honestly, if I can say that there was one person who really, really inspired me to know that within the art structure, there is hope for the future of Nigeria, it was Kanye.

“The inspiration that I got from my interaction with Kanye really gave me the knowledge that there is so much power in this. Even from a personal point of view, when I was dealing with so many personal issues, looking at Kanye and seeing what he was able to overcome, I just knew that there is no excuse for failure. In whatever period of time you have, add value to this country through this mandate.

“If Kanye can do it, you can do it. So I want to personally thank Kanye for that. I also recall that they mentioned that Kanye’s artistic journey began in childhood when he discovered colour as a powerful mode of self-expression. Well, today, having crafted an awe-inspiring artwork spanning an impressive 12,303.87 m², Kanye reminds us that the title lies within each of us, especially when we have the courage to work tirelessly towards our dreams and our goals.

“And I think this speaks to every single Nigerian, to know that each of us has the potential to thrive rather than just survive. It truly speaks to the success of what Nigeria is and the immense potential we can unlock within the creative industry. The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy is committed to nurturing and supporting the talents of our youth, such as Kanye and his achievement.”

Additionally, the Head of Retail, North, MTN Nigeria, Chikaodi Ofoegbu, spoke about MTN’s support for Kanye, the company’s ongoing Go M.A.D (Make A Difference) campaign, and how Kanye embodies their message.

“It is an immense honour to be at this event, on the occasion of a truly inspiring masterpiece by a remarkable artist, Kanye Tagbo-Okeke.

“Today, we are not just witnessing a record-breaking moment; it is a celebration of what is possible when human ingenuity meets unwavering determination. Kanye has harnessed his unique ability to create this large symbolic canvas.

“We at MTN believe in the power of data in unlocking endless possibilities for every Nigerian. Our commitment is to empower individuals like Kanye to take action, push boundaries, and dare to dream.

“We are dedicated to creating an environment where innovation thrives and where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools to make a lasting impact. We are here to show our unwavering support to those living with autism and their families as we mark World Autism Awareness Day.

“Let us all draw inspiration from Kanye’s journey and continue to nurture a culture of innovation and inclusivity. As we celebrate this monumental achievement, may we also commit ourselves to making a difference in our own spheres, contributing to a world that promotes diversity and fosters creativity for a brighter and better future,” Ofoegbu said.

The Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, Dr Victor Umeh, on the sidelines of the occasion, acknowledged the new record Tagbo-Okeke achieved and said he has made the entire Anambra State, Nigeria, and Africa proud with the Guinness World Record title he has earned.

In another remark, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations at the Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, described the record as an outstanding achievement that has once again placed Nigeria on the global stage.

“It is with great honour and immense joy that I stand before you today on this very historic occasion, on World Autism Day, to witness the unveiling of the largest art canvas in the world by an individual.

“This remarkable feat is not only a testament to the extraordinary artistic talents of our 15-year-old son but a further attestation to the renewed hope and resilience of the Nigerian people.

“On behalf of the members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to our visionary artist Kanyeyachukwu for this outstanding achievement that has once again placed Nigeria on the global stage. As you join other great Nigerians in breaking records in the Guinness Book of World Records, let us always remember that impossibility is only a myth. Kanye’s journey is a compelling narrative of determination, creativity, and perseverance.

“Despite the challenges associated with autism, he has defied limitations and redefined the artistic world. I am aware that from the age of five, he has used art as a powerful medium to communicate, inspire, and convey deep messages that resonate with humanity.

“Today we celebrate not just an artist but a trailblazer whose work has gained global recognition, earning him prestigious accolades, including the Guinness Book of World Records,” Musa added.

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