Nigerian teenage artist Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke has made history by breaking the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the largest painting by an individual.
His record-breaking artwork, titled “Impossibility is a Myth,” was unveiled in Abuja on World Autism Awareness Day 2025 (WAAD). The massive 12,303-square-meter canvas is more than twice the size of a football field, surpassing the previous record by nearly 3,000 square meters.
A Milestone for Autism Awareness and Creativity
The unveiling event at Eagles’ Square was attended by top government officials, diplomats, civil society groups, and leaders in the arts and culture sector.
-
Tagbo-Okeke, who is autistic, was presented with his Guinness World Record certificate during the event.
-
Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, praised the young artist’s achievement, calling it a “historic and inspiring milestone” that proves age and challenges are no barriers to greatness.
-
His father, Tagbo Okeke, shared how his son’s love for colors and a structured routine helped him develop his artistic talents.
-
UNICEF representative Cristian Munduate, speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, highlighted the importance of disability inclusion in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) stressed that children with autism can be highly productive and urged the government to invest more in specialized education and care. Also MTN Nigeria’s Head of Retail, Chikaodi Ofoegbu, emphasized the need for an inclusive environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
Kanyeyachukwu’s achievement is a powerful testament to the limitless potential of children with autism, proving that impossibility is indeed a myth.
