- Tunde Onakoya presented his chess marathon world record to President Tinubu.
- Tinubu praised his work with underserved children.
- The President supports expanding Onakoya’s initiative nationwide.
Nigerian chess player and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, met with President Bola Tinubu on Monday.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that Onakoya, during the meeting, presented his Guinness World Record certificate for the longest chess marathon to the President.
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Tinubu in a post through his official X handle, commended Onakoya for his work with underserved children and his efforts to promote education and development through chess.
Tinubu wrote, “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.
“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.”
The president also expressed interest in exploring how Onakoya’s initiative could be expanded nationally.
Tinubu said, “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.
“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.”
Recently, Onakoya, alongside American chess player Shawn Martinez, set a new GWR for the longest chess marathon after playing continuously for 64 hours in New York City.
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The feat beat his earlier record of 60 hours, which was overtaken by a Norwegian duo in 2024.
