NewsNigeriaNigerian Chess Champion, Tunde Onakoya Receives Presidential Praise

Nigerian chess champion, Tunde Onakoya, has received recognition from the country’s highest office for his recent record-breaking feat.

Onakoya, successfully completed a gruelling 60-hour chess marathon in New York’s Times Square, potentially etching his name in the Guinness World Records.

The record-breaking attempt began on 17th April and saw Onakoya battle a series of opponents without losing a single game, fuelled by determination and a desire to empower underprivileged children.

He initially targeted playing for 58 consecutive hours, surpassing the existing record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set in 2018.

The marathon ended in the early hours of Saturday, 20th April although official confirmation by Guinness World Records is awaited.

President Bola Tinubu lauded Onakoya’s achievement, commending his “audacity to make good change.”

“I celebrate this Nigerian Chess Champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa for his rare feat, but especially for the reason driving this compelling demonstration of character, which is raising funds for African children to learn and find opportunity through chess,” The President’s social media post read.

“Tunde has shown a streak customary among Nigeria’s youth population, the audacity to make good change happen.”

President Tinubu further emphasised his administration’s commitment to fostering opportunities for young Nigerians.

He said his administration “remains strongly committed to creating and expanding opportunities for the youth to explore and exercise their abilities and become the symbols of greatness our nation represents into the future.”

Onakoya’s marathon was more than just a display of chess prowess; it served as a fundraiser for his charity, Chess in Slums Africa, which supports children’s education initiatives. Onakoya’s dedication and perseverance throughout the marathon have garnered significant attention, both within Nigeria and internationally.