GWR: Sanwo-Olu Applauds Tunde Onakoya’s Landmark 64-Hour Chess Marathon Achievement

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has praised Nigerian chess maestro and founder of Chess in Slums, Tunde Onakoya, for his remarkable feat of setting a new 64-hour chess marathon record.

In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Sanwo-Olu described the accomplishment as more than a personal milestone, calling it a moment of pride for both Lagos and the nation as a whole.

The governor applauded Onakoya’s steadfast dedication and resilience, highlighting the achievement as a powerful reflection of his exceptional talent and passion for chess.

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Sanwo-Olu also gave a special mention to Ferdinand, a young chess enthusiast he recently met, noting that the boy’s strategic thinking and enthusiasm for the game left a strong impression on him.

Additionally, the governor celebrated the accomplishments of children involved in the #ChessInSlums initiative, as well as Jamiu Boluwatife, winner of the ICN Chess Championship, and other participants of the Chess Tournament at the 2025 United Nations Games in New York.

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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, in collaboration with his U.S. counterpart Shawn Martinez, has officially broken the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, clocking an impressive 64 hours.

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