“This is a miracle”- Parents of 11-year-old artist say, as Ambode pledges to support his education
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has pledged to support 11-year-old hyper-realist artist, Kareem Waris Olamilekan’s education.
Waris had drawn public attention when he made a portrait of visiting French President, Emmanuel Macron in two hours over a week ago.
Ambode, while hosting Waris and his parents at the state government house today, promised to give him educational support, as well as help to nurture his talent to become a great artist later in life.
Waris said he was extremely thrilled to meet with President Macron and Governor Ambode, saying the development was a life-changing moment for him.
“I am very happy and excited. I thank Governor Ambode for this opportunity. Now, I want to study my arts very well; I want to be a good artist, great artist in the world,” Waris said.
His parents, Mr and Mrs Mutiu Kareem, said the feat attained by their son was a significant turning point in their lives, and thanked the State Government for the huge support they have so far received.
“I thank God for this. What has happened in my life through my son is something I never thought would happen to me but this is a miracle. I am so happy,” his father, Kareem, said.
The State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Steve Ayorinde said Ambode was also committed to supporting the Arts Academy run by Waris’ mentor.
“So, the Governor is interested in his school. We are happy that Waris is a product of a public school and you could see that the Principal of his school is here and she is happy. The Governor has also acknowledged the contribution of Waris’ mentor, Adewole who is here and because he also has a Arts Academy that inspired and produced Waris, His Excellency the Governor thinks that that Arts Academy should flourish and he is going to also support him, his career and what he is doing,” Ayorinde said.
