15-Year-Old Nigerian Boy Breaks Guinness World Record for Largest Art Canvas
A 15-year-old Nigerian artist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, has set a new Guinness World Records for the Largest Painting on a Canvas by an individual.
The record-breaking artwork, titled Impossibility is a Myth, was unveiled in Abuja on Wednesday to mark the 2025 World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD).
The massive painting measures 12,303 square metres, making it more than twice the size of a football field and surpassing the previous record by nearly 3,000 square metres.
The event, held at Eagles Square, was attended by diplomats, civil society groups, traditional rulers, top government officials, and key stakeholders in the arts and culture sector.
Kanyeyachukwu was presented with his official Guinness World Records certificate during the ceremony.
Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, hailed the young artist’s achievement as “a historic and inspiring milestone.” She emphasised that the accomplishment proved age and disabilities were no barriers to greatness.
Kanyeyachukwu, who is autistic, has used his love for art to break barriers. His father, Tagbo Okeke, shared insights into his son’s journey, explaining how a carefully structured routine helped the young artist focus.
He noted that the theme of the artwork, Impossibility is a Myth, reflected the challenges they faced in creating such a large-scale painting.
The United Nations also had a presence at the event, with Dr Mohamed Fall, the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, represented by Cristian Munduate of UNICEF .
He underscored the significance of disability inclusion in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing that people with disabilities should have equal access to opportunities.
Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) praised Kanyeyachukwu’s feat, stating that children with autism could be highly productive when given the right support.
He called on the government to invest more in specialised education and care for autistic children.
Also speaking at the event, Chikaodi Ofoegbu, Head of Retail at MTN Nigeria, highlighted the need for fostering an environment that nurtures innovation and inclusivity.
He urged Nigerians to encourage creativity and break societal limitations.
Kanyeyachukwu’s groundbreaking achievement has drawn widespread acclaim, not just as a testament to artistic talent but also as an inspiring story of resilience and determination in the face of challenges.
