Culture and Tourism

Musawa Celebrates Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke on Guinness World Record

Published

2 months ago

April 2, 2025

…Commits to empowering Autistic Artists
Joel Ajayi

The Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy has announced its commitment to supporting talented autistic children in Nigeria.

The Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa made this known on Wednesday at the Eagles Square Abuja, during the unveiling and presentation of certificate to 15-year old autistic artist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke by the Guiness World Record Organization. The event also coincided with the commemoration of World Autism Awareness day.

In her welcome address, Minister Musawa congratulated Kanyeyachukwu for breaking the Guinness World Record by painting the largest art canvas in the world.

“We are here to honor fifteen- year old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a young Nigerian prodigy, 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.

“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 recognize the unique abilities and potential of individuals with autism and are dedicated to providing opportunities for them to thrive in the creative industries.

“Kanyeyachukwu’s record-breaking artwork, “Impossible is a Myth,” is not only an impressive feat but also a beacon of inspiration for autistic children and individuals around the world. His achievement demonstrates that with the right support and opportunities, individuals with autism can excel in their chosen fields”.

Barr Musawa added that the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy is committed to providing a platform for autistic artists like Kanyeyachukwu to showcase their talents.

“We will work with relevant stakeholders to create opportunities for autistic children to develop their creative skills and pursue their passions”, the Minister said.

In attendance was the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed M. Malik, the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria H.E. Pasquale Salvaggio, the Director-General of the National Gallery of Art, Ahmed Bashir Sodangi, President, Society of Nigerian Artists Muhammad Suleiman, representatives of the Chief of Defense Staff and the Minister Federal Capital Territory, the Guiness World Record Organization and popular Afrobeat singer, Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo popularly known as

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Creative Industry

NTDA, ITPN Sign Pact to Enhance Professionalism in Tourism Sector

Published

19 hours ago

June 6, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

In a strategic move to strengthen professionalism and build capacity within Nigeria’s tourism industry, the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) has forged a partnership with the Institute for Tourism Professionals of Nigeria (ITPN).

During a courtesy visit to the Authority, the ITPN delegation led by Mrs. Fatimah Obadaki, Chairperson, FCT Chapter emphasized the need for structured collaboration aimed at equipping tourism personnel with industry-relevant skills and enhancing service standards across the sector.

She highlighted that the visit was rooted in the institute’s mission to foster partnerships that promote high standards of service delivery and human capital development in the Nigerian tourism and hospitality sectors.

In his remarks, Dr. Olaleye Taiwo Famogbiyole, FITPN, Registrar of the ITPN, FCT Chapter, emphasized the pressing need to bridge the skill gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements. “The knowledge our graduates bring into the industry is no longer sufficient. We must adopt industry-recognized training programs to align university education with practical industry expectations. As an awarding body within the hospitality, travel, and allied trades ecosystem, we see a vital need to professionalize the sector,” Dr. Famogbiyole stated.

He further called for collaboration with NTDA in training staff in tour operations, tour guiding services and destination management. He proposed that NTDA staff be enrolled as members of the institute and benefit from its tailored training programs.

Dr. Famogbiyole also commended NTDA for its unwavering support of the National Tourism and Transportation Summit (NTTS), one of ITPN’s flagship initiatives. “NTDA has been a consistent and invaluable partner in the success of the NTTS over the years,” he noted.

In response, Mr. Ovie Esewhaye, Director overseeing the Office of the Director General of NTDA, welcomed the ITPN team and praised their resilience and commitment to professionalizing the sector despite prevailing economic challenges.

“At NTDA, we are repositioned for effective performance through strategic collaborations. We are open to partnerships that enhance the capabilities of our workforce. I pledge that all NTDA directors will be enrolled as members of the Institute and we will ensure our staff benefit from the various training programs offered by ITPN,” Mr. Esewhaye assured.

He further revealed that NTDA is undergoing a digital transformation and working towards ISO certifications to improve operational efficiency. “We want to be a benchmark for tourism standards in Africa,” he said.

Mr. Esewhaye reaffirmed NTDA’s commitment to the National Tourism and Transportation Summit and expressed willingness to participate in its upcoming edition. He also accepted ITPN’s invitation to participate in the Abuja Tourism Roundtable scheduled for July 2025, emphasizing, “As long as it has to do with promoting tourism, we will be there.”

The visit marked a significant step in strengthening institutional ties aimed at enhancing professionalism and capacity within Nigeria’s tourism sector.

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