Governor Monday Okpebholo has reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on discrimination against children living with autism, reaffirming his commitment to inclusive policies and improved welfare for persons with special needs in Edo State.

The State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kassim Afegbua, conveyed the governor’s position during a reception held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in honour of autistic artist and cyclist Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, who is currently on a long-distance awareness ride from Enugu to Lagos.

Afegbua assured parents and guardians that the state government remains deeply invested in the well-being of autistic children and is taking deliberate steps to ensure they are not marginalized. He emphasized that Governor Okpebholo’s administration is prioritizing policies that support children with neurodevelopmental conditions, enabling them to live productive and fulfilling lives.

Describing autism as a neurodevelopmental condition affecting brain function, Afegbua highlighted Kanyeyachukwu’s remarkable achievements, including his record-setting largest painting, which earned him global recognition. He noted that the young cyclist’s journey symbolizes resilience and determination, adding that his ongoing ride across multiple states is a powerful advocacy tool for autism awareness.

“The journey from Enugu through Asaba to Benin and onward to Lagos reflects extraordinary endurance and commitment,” Afegbua said, commending the team of cyclists and coaches accompanying the campaign. He added that such initiatives are critical in opening pathways for other autistic children to realize their potential despite existing challenges.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, underscored the need for public enlightenment, stressing that autistic individuals are neither cursed nor afflicted by supernatural causes but require understanding, care, and structured support.

He noted that the event served both as a celebration of Kanyeyachukwu’s accomplishments and as a platform to educate the public on autism. According to him, autistic children possess unique talents that, when properly nurtured, can contribute meaningfully to society.

In his remarks, the cyclist’s father explained that the advocacy ride—covering Enugu, Anambra, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Ogun, and Lagos—is aimed at raising nationwide awareness about autism. He disclosed that the initiative is supported by the Cycling Federation of Nigeria, with 22 international cyclists participating.

He further revealed that the team conducts on-the-spot diagnostic assessments for children at various stops, supported by medical professionals, to identify and guide families dealing with autism spectrum conditions.

The event drew a large turnout of students, parents, educators, and stakeholders, filling the venue to capacity as they gathered to celebrate Kanyeyachukwu’s stopover in Edo State and his ongoing mission to promote awareness, acceptance, and inclusion for autistic children across Nigeria.