It is no more news that Nigerian chess champion,Tunde Onakoya, has broken the world record for the longest chess marathon after playing unbeaten for more than 58 hours in New York City’s Times Square to raise money for underprivileged children.in Africa.
Tunde Onakoya, 29, embarked on his marathon session on Wednesday, hoping to raise $1 million for children’s education across Africa through the record attempt.Since he broke the record,deluge of good wishes,has been coming his way. President Bola Tinubu congratulated Onakoya in a statement for “setting a new world chess record and sounding the gong of Nigeria’s resilience, self-belief, and ingenuity”.He added, had “shown a streak customary among Nigeria’s youth population, the audacity to make good change happen … even from corners of disadvantage.”
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, said Onakoya's remarkable story showed that with determination, dreams can indeed soar to monumental heights.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, while commending Tunde Onakoya for beating World Guinness records, said the journey of the Chess master from Lagos, Nigeria, to global recognition embodies the spirit of Lagos as a great city.
He said: “Congratulations to Chess Master Tunde Onakoya on breaking the world chess marathon record in Times Square, New York, United States of America. Your journey from Lagos, Nigeria, to global recognition embodies the spirit of our great city.
“Tunde continues to demonstrate that greatness can emerge from even the most humble beginnings. His remarkable story serves as a blueprint for all of us in Lagos-a city where his impact has been felt the most, showing that with determination, dreams can indeed soar to monumental heights.
“Tunde's entire journey was showcased on digital billboards and celebrated with watch parties, capturing the true spirit of Lagos. Despite enduring pain and fatigue, Tunde persevered, driven by his commitment to empower the children he champions.
"This is your moment, Tunde, and Lagos stands with you every step of the way.”
