Gov Mbah flags off cycling for autism marathon in Enugu

..,…..Assures group of support

By, Chinelo Kodilichukwu Enugu 

The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah has assured the Autism Society of Nigeria of the support of the Enugu State Government in its noble task of creating awareness about autism in Nigeria and promoting appropriate ways of managing the condition.

Mbah, who was represented at the occasion by the Secretary to the State Government, Chidiebere Onyia, made the assurance during the flag-off of “Cycling for Autism marathon with Kanyeyachukwu”, themed “Impossibility is a Myth,” held at Okpara Square.

The governor noted that it was historic, for the Autism Society of Nigeria and the family of Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke to choose Enugu State for the flag-off of the event.

He stated that the programme goes beyond sports, describing it as a powerful reminder that advocacy can take many forms.

According to him, “We have gathered here to witness a young man who is a Guinness World Record holder, a champion, and a symbol of a cause that deserves greater awareness. 

“Autism is a collective responsibility. As you embark on this noble and historic mission, be assured that we remain with you. 

“May everyone you encounter be inspired by your commitment and resilience. Your mission aligns with our goals in Enugu State.”

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ikechukwu Ekweremadu, said his ministry was deeply honoured to be part of the epoch-making event, noting that the programme both celebrates achievement and raises awareness about autism.

He described the 16-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke as a symbol of what can be achieved despite disability, stressing that “there is ability in disability,” which aligns with the theme “Impossibility is a Myth.”

He explained that despite his condition, Kanyeyachukwu had earlier set a Guinness World Records for painting on canvas.

According to him, Kanyeyachukwu will embark on a cycling journey from Enugu to Lagos from March 17 to April 2, as part of activities marking World Autism Awareness Day.

The commissioner urged members of society to show greater tolerance and understanding towards individuals living with autism.

He also commended the parents of Kanyeyachukwu for their dedication to creating awareness about autism and for their resilience in supporting their son.

Earlier, the father of Kanyeyachukwu, Tagbo Okeke, said the mission of the cycling journey was to create awareness about autism. 

He encouraged parents and teachers to treat autistic individuals with care, patience, and tolerance.

He explained that when the family realised that Kanyeyachukwu was autistic, they decided to manage the condition with understanding and consistent support.

Delivering a lecture at the event, Uchechukwu  Okoji stated that autism is neither spiritual nor purely psychiatric. 

He explained that parents of autistic children often face many challenges and described autistic individuals as neurodivergent persons who may possess special abilities.

In her address, the Commissioner for Gender Affairs, Ngozi Eni, commended the Autism Society of Nigeria and the family of Kanyeyachukwu for creating awareness and enabling conditions for autistic individuals to find support and acceptance. 

She also praised the Commissioner for Youth and Sports for partnering with her ministry and the Okeke family to organise the event.

A major highlight of the programme was the flag-off of Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke’s cycling journey to Lagos.

Pupils of the Smart Green Schools who attended the event in large numbers were thrilled and excited during the cultural entertainment as they awaited the arrival of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.