THURSDAY April 3, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng
15 years old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a Nigerian artist, on Wednesday received the Guinness World Record certificate for the largest artwork ever.
Kanyeyachukwu had on 24th November 2024 broken the Guinness World Record for the largest canvas painting, when he painted on 12,303.87 square metres canvas to dust the previous record of 9,632 square metres.
The project is meant to promote campaigns in support of autism and mental health awareness.
Speaking at the unveiling of the largest ever artwork by an individual and presentation of certificate by Guinness World Record Organisation, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa said the feat is a proof that with the right opportunity and guidance, young Nigerians can achieve the unimaginable.
She said: “It is with great joy that I stand before you today, as we come together to celebrate an extraordinary achievement. Today, we are not only witnessing the breaking of a world record, but also the triumph of determination, perseverance, and the unrelenting spirit of the Nigerian youth.
“We are here to honour fifteen (15) year old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a young Nigerian prodigy if I may say, who has shown the world what is possible when passion meets hard work. By breaking this world record, Kanyeyachukwu has not only set a new record but has also demonstrated to us all that age is no barrier to greatness.”
The Minister stresses her ministry “is committed to nurturing and supporting the talents of young people such as Kanye.
“His achievement today is proof that with the right opportunity and guidance, our young people can achieve the unimaginable.”
She noted that Kanyeyachukwu’s achievement is for the entire nation, adding that “It is indeed a historic and inspiring milestone.”
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa in his remarks described the feat as further attestation of the renewed hope and resilience of the Nigerian people.
Musa noted that Kanye’s success is a pointer on the need to prioritise talents, discovering and making concerted efforts to support gifted individuals with appropriate platforms that will showcase and elevate them to limelight.
“This is particularly important as Nigeria faces contemporary security threats that require both kinetic and non-kinetic measures,” he added.
He added: “Today’s event offers us another dimension to tackling insecurity through non-kinetic means. By nurturing and showcasing talents, we can easily win the hearts and minds of people, encouraging them to embrace legitimate endeavours that project their image positively, rather than resorting to crime and acts of terror as a means to make their voices heard.
“As we join other great Nigerians to celebrate the Guinness Book of World Records, let us be ever reminded that indeed, 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.”
The Deputy Secretary General, United Nations, Amina Mohammed noted that the unveiling of the artwork did not only break records but also barriers.
She said: “It is a moment of awareness day and thus we are witness to unveiling an extraordinary masterpiece, one that not only breaks records but also breaks barriers.
“Today we are celebrating Kanyeyachukwu, a young artist, whose talent and determination have captivated the world and is now inspiring children in Nigeria. His greatest world record achievement is not just a personal milestone but a very powerful testament to the limitless potential of what you can achieve with will. Helping and supporting people with disabilities helps so much the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals around the world.
“When we speak about autism and the opportunity that can be given to children and to many adolescents, we are talking about specific Sustainable Development Goals. And the purpose is leaving no one behind and this includes that all people with disabilities, like the ones in here, have an equal access to opportunities like access to education and employment. True progress can only be achieved when societies embrace diversity and create environments where every child, regardless of ability, can contribute to the experience, meaningful to which they are full of potential.
“The United Nations is committed to advocating the rights of people and persons with disabilities and every child, especially those on the autism spectrum, to have equal opportunities as I mentioned, education, healthcare, and opportunities to thrive through inclusion and basic services. As we are admiring this breathtaking work of art, let us remind ourselves of our shared responsibility to create a world where all individuals are empowered, respected, and provided the space to express their full potential.”
The Director-General, National Gallery of Art, Ahmed Sodangi, on his part said: “The National Gallery of Art is committed to promoting and preserving Nigerian art, and we are proud to have played a role in supporting Kanye’s artistic heritage.
“This award really marks a significant milestone in our effort to showcase Nigerian art to the world. As we marvel at the magnificent artwork, we remain touched as we remember Frisco’s famous and ugly title, Impossibility is a Myth.
“We are reminded of the transformative power of art. Art has the ability to inspire, to educate, and to challenge our assumptions. It speaks to our shared humanity, invoking emotions, sparking imagination and prospecting hope.”
On his part, the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr James Christoff stressed the need for inclusion irrespective of background and circumstances.
He said: “This journey is not only inspiring, but also proof of the power that comes from pushing beyond limits, both for persons with disabilities, but for all future generations. Various factors contribute to a person’s success, but society and community has a key role to play in recognising and embracing everyone’s diversity. In Canada, this belief is woven into the very fabric of our culture.
“Equally important is our commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the same opportunity to succeed. This commitment extends to the inclusion of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities. In my country, we strive for a society where everyone has the chance to thrive, taking into account their unique challenges and starting points.”
Kanyeyachukwu Receives Guinness World Record Certificate For Largest Artwork By Individual
