The Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Adetokunbo Abiru, has commended the 29-year-old Ikorodu-born chess master and coach, Tunde Onakoya, for setting a global record in chess game.
Onakoya broke the world record for the longest chess marathon after playing unbeaten for about 60 hours in New York City’s Times Square to raise money for underprivileged children.
He broke the record of Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56 hours and nine minutes in 2018.
The lawmaker, in his congratulatory message on Sunday, saluted the courage and determination of Onakoya, noting that the rare feat had once again given a ray of hope to many young folks, particularly those from underprivileged homes striving to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.
According to the statement signed by his media aide, Enitan Olukotun, Abiru said, “On behalf of the good people of Lagos East Senatorial District, I congratulate the Ikorodu-born global Chess Champion, Tunde Onakoya, for setting a world record for winning the longest chess marathon.
“This feat has set the stage for many young people in Ikorodu, Lagos East Senatorial District and beyond to reach for the top. He has demonstrated that adversity can never conquer a determined and courageous person. I am proud of his remarkable accomplishment and the honour he has brought to our dear nation.”
On Saturday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hailed the chess master for setting a new record.
In a statement posted on his X account, Sanwo-Olu said, “Congratulations to chess master, Tunde Onakoya, on breaking the world chess marathon record in Times Square, New York. Your journey from Lagos, Nigeria to global recognition embodies the spirit of our great city.”
