The Lagos State Government on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, welcomed 16 year old autistic cyclist, Tagbo Okeke Kanyeyachukwu, who arrived in the state as part of an endurance ride from Enugu State to raise awareness about autism.
Kanyeyachukwu, accompanied by his parents, members of the Kanyeyachukwu Autism Foundation, cycling officials, and a medical support team, was received by the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende.
Ogunlende commended the teenager’s resilience and praised his parents for their unwavering support and commitment.
The visit forms part of the “Ride with Kanye” campaign, which coincides with World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2.
He noted that the reception reflects the state government’s commitment to inclusion, adding that Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu is expected to formally receive the team at the State House on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
“There is ability in disability, and young people are very important to any development, to any country. We will continue to showcase this through avenues like this,” the commissioner said.
Speaking on the initiative, Kanyeyachukwu’s father, Tagbo Okeke, explained that the ride is aimed at promoting awareness and encouraging conversations about autism across communities.
“Every city we get to, we have community engagement taking place. We interact with students, teachers, religious leaders, and government leaders to spread awareness that autism is not a disease but a condition that needs to be managed,” he said.
He stressed the importance of inclusion, noting that children with autism require support and proper care to thrive.
“What most parents and children with autism need, more than anything else, is to be included in all spheres of society. No child should be left behind, and at the same time, they need proper care. Care is expensive,” he added.
Okeke also revealed that his son set a Guinness World Record last year for creating the largest painting on canvas, which was unveiled in Abuja, describing the achievement as evidence of what individuals with autism can accomplish when given the right support and opportunities.
