Renowned Nigerian chess player and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, paid a courtesy visit to President Bola Tinubu on Monday night, where he officially presented his Guinness World Record certificate for the longest chess marathon. He also gifted the President a gold-plated Adire chess board.
Tunde Onakoya, alongside American chess player Shawn Martinez, set a new Guinness World Record on April 20, 2024, for the longest chess marathon after playing continuously for 64 hours in New York City.
The meeting was revealed in a post on President Tinubu’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle. The president praised Onakoya’s inspiring journey from the streets of Lagos to the global stage, highlighting his dedication to using chess as a tool for education and social development among disadvantaged children.
“I received Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, at my residence today where he also presented his World Record for the longest Chess Marathon,” Tinubu wrote.
The president further commended Onakoya’s achievements, describing them as a reflection of the potential and brilliance of Nigeria’s young population.
“Tunde’s journey, from the streets of Lagos to uplifting underserved children and breaking world records, reflects the resilience and brilliance of Nigeria’s youth.
“Through chess, he opens minds and transforms lives in communities that are too often overlooked,” Tinubu stated.
Expressing admiration for Onakoya’s impact, Tinubu revealed his intention to explore ways of expanding the Chess in Slums Africa initiative across the country. He invited the chess master to Abuja for further discussions on how the government could play a role in supporting the project.
“I would love to see how his work can be replicated nationwide and I am looking forward to seeing him in Abuja to hear how the government can support him,” the president said.
He also acknowledged that Onakoya’s mission aligns closely with the administration’s broader goals regarding youth empowerment and education.
“Tunde Onakoya’s vision aligns with our administration’s: no child left behind, no talent wasted.
“Nigeria is proud of him, and we will walk with him,” Tinubu added.
