Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced a N200 million support package for autism advocacy and caregiver development, as 16-year-old autistic cyclist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, set a new Guinness World Record.
The announcement was made on Thursday at Lagos House, Marina, during an event commemorating the 2026 World Autism Awareness Day.
Kanyeyachukwu was honoured for successfully completing a long-distance cycling journey that began in Enugu on March 14, demonstrating resilience and determination while raising awareness about autism.
Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that N100 million would be allocated to autism-focused organisations under the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), while the remaining N100 million would support the Kanyeyachukwu Foundation to strengthen advocacy and intervention programmes.
Speaking at the event, the governor emphasised that the initiative was aimed at expanding support systems for persons with autism and building the capacity of caregivers.
He said:“I will give N100 million to all autism-focused groups under LASODA and an additional N100 million from the Lagos State Government to the foundation. This is not just about one child; it is about using this platform to touch many others who do not have the same opportunity.
We must train and develop competent caregivers with the knowledge and skills required to support children with special needs. Once we do that, half of the challenge is addressed.”
The governor described the funding as an initial step toward strengthening autism advocacy, improving access to care, and promoting professional caregiver training across the state.
During the ceremony, a representative of Guinness World Records officially certified Kanyeyachukwu as the youngest person to cycle 100 miles, adding to his previous achievement of creating the largest painting on canvas, which was unveiled in Abuja last year.
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the teenager for helping to reshape public perception about autism and inspiring greater acceptance and inclusion.
“Your advocacy has helped many people to see autism not as a limitation, but as a different way of expressing and contributing to our world,” he said.
In his remarks, Kanyeyachukwu’s father, Tagbo Okeke, explained that the cycling journey covered multiple states over a period of 15 to 16 days without incident, noting that safety and coordination were prioritised throughout the trip.
He expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government and other supporters for their guidance, encouragement, and logistical support.
Also speaking, the General Manager of LASODA, Adenike Oyetunde, said the event underscored the state government’s commitment to promoting inclusion and improving the quality of life for persons with autism.
She added that sustained advocacy and collaborative efforts remain essential to ensuring that individuals with autism are supported to reach their full potential.
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