Sanwo-Olu celebrates Tunde Onakoya’s historic 64-hour chess marathon record
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has hailed Nigerian chess master and founder of Chess in Slums, Tunde Onakoya, for setting a new 64-hour chess marathon record.
Onakoya and Martinez receive GWR certificate Credit: X| Tunde_OD
Onakoya and Martinez receive GWR certificate Credit: X| Tunde_OD
In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Sanwo-Olu celebrated the victory as not just a personal achievement but a proud moment for Lagos and the entire nation.
Sanwo-Olu celebrates chess player
Sanwo-Olu celebrates chess player
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended Tunde’s unwavering dedication and perseverance, describing the achievement as a testament to his incredible talent and commitment to the game of chess.
Sanwo-Olu also gave a special shout-out to Ferdinand, a young chess enthusiast he had recently met, whose passion for the game and strategic thinking left a lasting impression.
Onakoya and Martinez receive GWR certificate Credit: X| Tunde_OD
Onakoya and Martinez receive GWR certificate Credit: X| Tunde_OD
The governor also took the opportunity to recognise the achievements of children from the #ChessInSlums initiative, along with Jamiu Boluwatife, who won the ICN Chess Championship, and participants from the Chess Tournament during the 2025 United Nations Games in New York.
Onakoya and Martinez receive GWR certificate
Onakoya and Martinez receive GWR certificate Credit: X| Tunde_OD
He wrote, “Hearty congratulations to #Tunde_OD for achieving a remarkable milestone by setting a Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
“This is not just a personal achievement, but a proud moment for all of us. Tunde’s perseverance and commitment to the game truly inspire everyone around him, and this accomplishment highlights his incredible talent.
“I also want to give a special shout-out to Ferdinand, whom I had the pleasure of meeting not long ago. His passion for chess and strategic thinking left a lasting impression on me. It’s inspiring to see children like him push boundaries and showcase their skills on a grand stage.
“I also have to mention the other children from #chessinslums and Jamiu Boluwatife who won the ICN Chess Championship and the Chess Tournament during the 2025 United Nations Games in New York. They all represent the best of our community, and I am confident that they will continue to achieve great things in the future.
“Once again, congratulations Tunde and all our champions. Your achievements are a source of pride for Lagos and a reminder that with determination and talent, we can reach all corners of the world.”
Onakoya, alongside his U.S. counterpart, Shawn Martinez, has officially set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon of 64 hours.
PUNCH Online reports that the chess marathon, which took place at the iconic Times Square in New York City, began on Wednesday, April 17, and concluded on Sunday, April 20.
At one point during the challenge, Martinez’s wife brought their newborn twins to the site, offering a touching family moment amid the intense competition.”
Hannah Johnson
Hannah, an exciting journalist with over a year of media experience, writes engaging content for social and digital media
