Tinubu Hails Onakoya For Using Chess To Lift Society

Tunde Onakoya met President Tinubu to present his Guinness World Record, receiving praise for using chess to educate and empower poor children.

Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya has presented his Guinness World Record certificate for the longest chess marathon to President Bola Tinubu. The presentation took place at a meeting on Monday night.

President Tinubu shared the news on his official social media account. He praised Onakoya for his efforts in helping children from poor backgrounds. Tinubu noted how chess is being used by Onakoya to promote education and improve the lives of young people who often lack opportunities.

“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,” Tinubu said.

Onakoya achieved the record with American chess player Shawn Martinez. They played chess non-stop for 64 hours in New York City, beating the previous record of 60 hours. Onakoya had once held that record before it was later broken by two Norwegians in 2024.

President Tinubu was impressed by Onakoya’s international recognition and showed interest in spreading his chess program across the country.

“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,” he said.

He added, “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.”

Through his organization, Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya uses chess to teach, inspire, and empower children in communities that are often ignored. His work brings education and hope to young people who might not otherwise have access to such opportunities.

The meeting with the president suggests that there may be future cooperation between the government and Onakoya to expand chess-based education programs as part of broader efforts to support youth development across Nigeria.
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