President Bola Tinubu has praised Tunde Onakoya, a renowned chess player, for setting a new world record in the game.
Tinubu commended Onakoya for showcasing Nigeria’s resilience, self-belief, and ingenuity on the global stage.
In a statement released by the President’s Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, on Saturday, Tinubu expressed his gratitude to Onakoya for his remarkable achievement.
The statement, titled ‘President Tinubu congratulates Tunde Onakoya on new world chess record,’ highlighted the historic moment.
Tunde Onakoya triumphed by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, managing to remain undefeated after playing for over 58 consecutive hours.
This incredible feat occurred during a marathon event held at New York’s Times Square. Onakoya surpassed the previous record set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
Tinubu lauded Onakoya’s tenacity, stating that he epitomizes the audacious spirit of Nigeria’s youth. “This audacity, which drives positive change and defies impossibilities, has led to innovative solutions for the nation’s challenges, even from disadvantaged circumstances.”
The President emphasized the consistent demonstration of excellence by Nigerian youth in various fields, including Afrobeats, Nollywood, skit-making enterprises, education, and science and technology.
The accomplishments of these young people prove that significant achievements can arise from the most unexpected corners.
Tinubu commended the unity among Nigerians, regardless of artificial divisions, as they rallied behind Onakoya’s groundbreaking venture.
He assured the nation’s citizens that his administration remains resolute in creating more opportunities for young people to explore and exhibit their abilities, thereby becoming the symbols of greatness that Nigeria represents in the future.
