As Tunde Onakoya prepares to shatter the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Nigerian economist Tony Elumelu, and the United States Mission in Nigeria have conveyed their best wishes to the contender.
Heartfelt messages were shared on social media platforms today, officially marking the commencement of Onakoya’s quest to surpass the current Guinness world record holders in chess.
Onakoya aims to contest for the longest chess marathon to secure a title from the Guinness World Record without facing defeat, an event to be held in Times Square, New York.
Former Vice President Osinbajo cheered for Onakoya, the founder of Chess in Slum Africa, as he geared up to surpass the current record holder.
He urged Onakoya to bring the glory of chess back to Nigeria, expressing confidence in his victory and echoing the words of the chess master, “It is possible to do great things from a small place.
“Let the dynamic energy of Times Square amplify the greatness that you, a proud Nigerian, bring to the chessboard. We’re all behind you—show the world the strength and determination you are made of! God bless you, @Tunde_OD.”
Similarly, Tony Elumelu, the Nigerian-born economist and philanthropist, wished Onakoya success in his attempt to set the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
Elumelu encouraged him to continue being a beacon of inspiration, especially for African youth, emphasizing their strong support.
Additionally, the US Mission Nigeria expressed solidarity with Onakoya’s endeavor to set another record for Nigeria, expressing excitement and anticipation for victory, realizing the dreams of children aspiring to a brighter future through education.
The previous record for the longest chess marathon was held by two Norwegians, Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, with a duration of 56 hours, 09 minutes, and 37 seconds.
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His Motivation to Achieve a Record
Earlier, Tunde Onakoya announced his intention to embark on a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest chess marathon, lasting 58 hours without losing a game, right in the heart of Times Square, New York City.
Onakoya, who is resilience in touching the lives of children, noted his endeavor is driven by the aspirations of millions of children across Africa who lack access to quality education.
Who is Tunde Onakoya?
Tunde Onakoya is the founder of Chess in Slum Africa and co-founder of Great Minds Kids Academy. He established Chess in Slum Africa in 2017 and revealed that he took a two-year break from primary school to study chess.
Driven by a passion to make a difference in children’s lives, he decided to advocate for kids lacking access to education and other societal challenges at the age of 23.
Chess in Slum Africa is a non-governmental initiative aimed at empowering children with untapped potential, who lack access to education in society, using chess as a tool for development.
