On Wednesday 24 April, 2024, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, welcomed back Tunde Onakoya, Nigeria’s Chess Master, to Lagos.
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| Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, welcomes Tunde Onakoya, Nigerian chess master, back to Lagos. Photo: @jidesanwoolu |
Tunde Onakoya, “our chess champions” broke the Guinness World Records for the longest chess marathon, at Times Square, New York City, United States (US).
According to bbc.com:
Onakoya hopes to raise $1m (£805,000) for charity to support chess education for millions of children.
The previous world record, recognised by Guinness World records, was 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds, which was set by Norwegian duo Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
The Lagos State Governor said, Onakoya’s “journey embodies the spirit of Lagos—resilient, ambitious, and driven to succeed.”
Onakoya basked in the support of the Nigerian community in New York City, including, Afrobeats Megastar, David Adedeji Adeleke OON, professionally known as, Davido.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “Powerful visions birth movements that change lives. Today, we welcomed back @Tunde_OD, our chess champion, to Lagos.
“His journey embodies the spirit of Lagos—resilient, ambitious, and driven to succeed. As we celebrate his achievements, we’re inspired by his vision for empowering our children and youth.
“Together with Tunde and the transformative power of Chess, we’ll work towards a future where every child in Lagos has the opportunity to realize their full potential.
“The state proudly supports his mission, purposefully providing resources to fuel this noble cause now and in the future.”
