‘Disability Is Not Limitation’: Asagba Backs Autism Awareness Ride With ₦3 Million
Royal Endorsement for Autism Advocacy
THE Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, has thrown his weight behind autism awareness advocacy, hosting teenage Guinness World Record holder Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke and members of the Cycling Federation of Nigeria at his palace in Asaba.
The visit, which took place on 21 March 2026, forms part of a long-distance cycling initiative tagged “Cycling for Autism: Impossibility is a Myth,” aimed at raising awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The advocacy ride, spanning from Enugu to Lagos, seeks to challenge societal perceptions of autism and promote inclusion for individuals living with the condition.
A Journey Beyond Advocacy
At just 16, Kanyeyachukwu has emerged as a symbol of resilience and creativity. Diagnosed with autism at birth, he rose to global prominence after setting a Guinness World Record for creating the largest painting on canvas.
His latest initiative—the cross-country cycling campaign—is designed not only to draw attention to autism but also to demonstrate that individuals living with the condition can achieve extraordinary feats.
According to organisers, the campaign underscores a central message: limitations are often social constructs rather than inherent realities.
Asagba’s Message: Beyond Stigma
In his remarks, the Asagba emphasised that every child is born with unique gifts and potentials, regardless of physical or developmental challenges.
He cautioned against the culture of hiding children with disabilities due to fear of stigma, describing such attitudes as counterproductive and harmful.
Drawing from personal experience as a former academic at the University of Benin, the monarch recalled teaching visually impaired students who excelled academically, reinforcing his belief that disability does not equate to inability.
He urged parents to emulate the determination of Kanyeyachukwu’s family by identifying and nurturing the strengths of their children.
Call for Social Awareness and Inclusion
The monarch explained that his decision to host the advocacy team was partly motivated by the need to inspire families within Asaba and beyond.
He noted that many children living with autism remain unseen due to societal stigma, and called for a shift toward openness, education, and support.
According to him, initiatives like the cycling campaign provide a platform for dialogue and learning, encouraging parents to seek expert guidance and explore the abilities of children with developmental conditions.
Support for the Campaign
In a show of support, the Asagba donated ₦3 million to the autism awareness initiative, describing it as a meaningful step toward promoting inclusion and social understanding.
He also challenged stakeholders, including community leaders and sports administrators, to explore the possibility of hosting cycling competitions in Asaba, leveraging such events to drive social advocacy.
Organisers Highlight Purpose
Speaking earlier, community leader Chief Chuck Nduka-Eze, who introduced the young advocate, described Kanyeyachukwu as a gifted individual whose talents were nurtured through dedication and parental support.
He noted that the teenager’s achievements serve as a model for other families, demonstrating that autism should not be seen as a barrier to success.
Kanyeyachukwu’s father, Tagbo Okeke, acknowledged the challenges associated with raising a child with autism but stressed that awareness and understanding are critical.
He explained that the cycling project was conceived to encourage society to engage more deeply with the realities of autism and to foster acceptance.
A Broader Social Message
The visit highlights a growing movement in Nigeria to promote inclusivity and challenge misconceptions about developmental conditions.
Stakeholders say sustained advocacy, supported by institutions and traditional leadership, is essential to changing societal attitudes.
For Kanyeyachukwu and his supporters, the message is clear: autism is not a limitation—but an opportunity to rethink how society defines ability and success.
