Mayor Ras J. Baraka of Newark, New Jersey, honored fourteen-year-old Nigerian, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, during the 8th Annual Nigerian Independence Day celebration. The grand event, titled 'The New Nigeria Strategic Plan on Reform for the Economy (S.P.O.R.E.)' 2023, served as the backdrop for this momentous occasion.
Kanyeyachukwu, who is living with autism, received the prestigious Young CEO Award in a ceremony attended by dignitaries and members of the Nigerian diaspora community in the United States. The young prodigy, born in Calgary, Canada, to Mr. and Dr. Tagbo-Okeke, hails from Amichi in Anambra State, Nigeria.
Mayor Baraka, in a letter of commendation, praised Kanyeyachukwu for his unwavering diligence, devotion, leadership, and inspiration he provides to his people. He emphasized the young CEO's contributions and the strong foundation of ethical values he is building for the future. Council Member-At-Large of the City of Newark, Louis Scott-Roundtree, also expressed his appreciation for Kanyeyachukwu's ongoing service, leadership work, and commitment to improving the quality of life in the surrounding communities.
"I know you will continue to be an inspiration to us all. I am excited to see you reap the fruits of your efforts, and I have no doubt that your impact will leave a lasting legacy," Scott-Roundtree stated in his letter.
The clerk of the City of Newark, Kecia Daniels, confirmed the joy of the Newark Municipal Council in accepting Kanyeyachukwu as an honoree of the Lord & Nikes 8th Annual Nigerian Independence Day Celebration 2023.
Kanyeyachukwu's journey to this remarkable achievement has been paved with notable accomplishments in the world of art. As a painter, he has distinguished himself from his peers, earning global recognition in the creative art world and the special needs community. In 2019, he received the Nigerian Independence Day Award for Social Bravery, an acknowledgment of his advocacy for diversity and inclusion.
His artistic works adorn the walls of several embassies in Nigeria and foreign mission headquarters worldwide, reflecting his commitment to fostering understanding and unity through art. His paintings have graced exhibitions in New York, Washington DC, Malta, and even at the OPEC Fund for International Development art exhibition in Vietnam and Austria.
The 8th Annual Nigerian Independence Day celebration not only marked Nigeria's independence but also celebrated the outstanding achievements of young talents like Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo Okeke, reinforcing the importance of dedication, leadership, and inclusivity in the community. Kanyeyachukwu's journey is an inspiration to all, transcending boundaries and proving that determination knows no limits.
