PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has commended Chess maestro Tunde Onakoya for achieving a new world chess record, acknowledging his role in showcasing Nigeria’s resilience, self-confidence, and creativity on the global stage.
The commendation was made in a statement released by the Presidency through the President’s Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale.
Onakoya recently made history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, playing for over 58 hours without defeat at New York’s Times Square.
This achievement surpassed the record previously held by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
President Tinubu lauded Onakoya, the Nigerian Chess Champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, not only for his remarkable accomplishment but also for his altruistic motive of raising funds to support African children in learning and discovering opportunities through chess.
Tinubu highlighted Onakoya’s embodiment of the Nigerian youth’s spirit, showcasing the determination to effect positive change, overcome challenges, and offer innovative solutions, even in the face of adversity.
The President emphasized the potential of Nigeria’s youth, evident in various fields such as Afrobeats, Nollywood, skit-making, education, and technology, proving that significant achievements can emerge from seemingly modest beginnings.
He commended the unity displayed by Nigerians in supporting transformative initiatives like Onakoya’s record-breaking feat, underscoring his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering opportunities for youth empowerment and nurturing their talents to shape a future where they embody the greatness that defines the nation.
