The quiet halls of the National Assembly Library came alive on Tuesday as lawmakers and guests gathered for an art exhibition unlike any other, one that blended creativity with a powerful call for national action on autism.
At the heart of the event was Kanye, a young autistic painter whose extraordinary talent recently earned him a Guinness World Record for creating the largest painting on canvas.
His vibrant works, displayed across the gallery, drew admiration from guests and sparked conversations about inclusion, awareness, and future legislation.
But the exhibition was more than a showcase of artistic genius. It marked a renewed commitment by the National Assembly to confront the stigma faced by thousands of children living with autism in Nigeria. As attendees studied Kanye’s expressive pieces, the parliament reaffirmed its resolve to pursue policies that promote acceptance and support for affected families.
Autism, a developmental condition that affects social communication and often presents through delayed speech, difficulty with interaction, and repetitive behaviours, remains misunderstood by many. Its causes, a complex mix of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, are still widely debated. Yet the biggest challenge, speakers noted, is not the condition itself, but the silence and stigma surrounding it.
Maria Okafor, Founder of the RBM Autism Foundation, described the exhibition as a rare and meaningful platform for children on the spectrum. For many autistic children, she explained, spoken language is limited, but their creativity becomes a powerful voice. “This kind of storytelling through art is extremely important,” she said. “Kanye is a perfect example. His parents nurtured his talent, and today he is a Guinness World Record holder.” She urged the government to launch a nationwide awareness campaign, stressing that fear of stigma still discourages many parents from seeking early intervention and support.
Officials at the National Assembly echoed this concern. Henry Nwauba, a senior representative of the Assembly Library, said the institution aims to serve as a centre for dialogue on issues affecting vulnerable groups. The exhibition, he noted, aligns with the legislature’s broader commitment to inclusion. “While a specific autism bill may not yet exist, any policy that strengthens inclusion is one we support,” he said, adding that discussions from the event could inspire future legislative proposals. He also appealed for greater empathy toward autistic children and the caregivers who support them daily.
For Kanye’s family, the exhibition was deeply personal. His father, Mr. Okeke, shared how his son began painting at age five, turning what started as a pastime into a profound tool for advocacy and awareness. Hosting the exhibition with the National Assembly Library, he said, was part of their mission to use art to elevate conversations about autism, special needs, and the urgent policies families require. He highlighted the high cost of therapy and specialised support in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for legislation that guarantees affordable healthcare, education, employment opportunities, and accessible interventions.
He added that although autism is slowly gaining recognition nationwide, many communities still grapple with misinformation and stigma, making awareness efforts like this exhibition even more critical.
By the time the event ended, Kanye’s artworks had done more than decorate a gallery; they had ignited a renewed national dialogue. And for the children and families affected by autism, the National Assembly’s pledge offered a glimmer of hope that understanding, inclusion, and meaningful support may soon move from conversation to law.
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