Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has praised well-known chess expert, Tunde Onakoya, for achieving a new 60-hour chess marathon milestone.
In a statement published on his X account on Saturday, Sanwo-Olu applauded Onakoya for breaking the world chess marathon record in Times Square, New York.
He commended Onakoya’s journey from Lagos, Nigeria to international recognition, saying that it represents the spirit of the city.
He stated, "Congratulations to chess expert, Tunde Onakoya, for breaking the world chess marathon record in Times Square, New York. Your journey from Lagos, Nigeria to global recognition represents the spirit of our great city.
"#Tunde_OD continues to demonstrate that greatness can emerge from even the most humble beginnings. His remarkable story serves as a model for all of us in Lagos-a city where his impact has been felt the most, showing that with determination, dreams can indeed soar to monumental heights.
"Tunde’s entire journey was displayed on digital billboards and celebrated with watch parties, capturing the true spirit of Lagos. Despite enduring pain and fatigue, Tunde persevered, driven by his commitment to empower the children he champions.
"This is your moment, Tunde, and Lagos stands with you every step of the way.
Onakoya surpassed the record of Norwegian players, Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56 hours and 9 minutes in 2018.
Providing an update, his foundation, Chess in Slums Africa, stated, "60 Hours for those who dare to dream! 60 Hours for the millions of children who have been told to abandon their dreams!
"60 Hours because one person decided that there is no future worth dreaming of that does not include them! It is now #Tunde60HoursofChess #Tunde_OD.
The new record holder mentioned that his attempt was to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa.
