President Tinubu Hosts, Pledges Support to Guinness Record Holder Tunde Onakoya
President Tinubu Hosts Chess Champion Tunde Onakoya, Pledges National Support
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently extended a warm welcome to Nigerian chess master and Guinness World Record holder, Tunde Onakoya, at his residence.
The meeting, which has generated significant buzz online, celebrated Onakoya’s remarkable achievement and highlighted the President’s commitment to youth empowerment.
Onakoya gained international recognition for his extraordinary feat of playing chess non-stop for 60 hours in Times Square, New York, a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
During his visit, President Tinubu was seen beaming with pride as he received a custom Guinness World Record plaque and a chess set from the young champion.
President Tinubu’s Praise for Onakoya’s Impact
In a heartfelt post on his official Instagram page, President Tinubu lauded Onakoya’s inspiring journey:
“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.”
The President further commended Onakoya’s initiative, Chess in Slums Africa, describing it as a movement that is not only “opening minds but also transforming entire communities.”
He expressed a desire to explore how Onakoya’s impactful work could be replicated nationwide, signaling potential government collaboration.
“Through chess, he opens minds and transforms lives in communities that are too often overlooked.
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,” President Tinubu added.
Emphasizing the alignment of Onakoya’s vision with his administration’s goals, President Tinubu concluded: “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. ~ PBAT”
In response to the presidential reception, Tunde Onakoya shared a concise yet touching message on his social media: “Thank you for the great honor and kind reception your excellency sir 🙏🏾🇳🇬❤️” This high-profile meeting underscores the growing recognition of chess as a tool for social development and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
President Tinubu Hosts, Pledges Support to Guinness Record Holder Tunde Onakoya