Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has extended his best wishes to Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya, who is currently trying to break the Guinness World Record for the longest unbeaten chess marathon.
News About Nigeria reports that Onakoya has crossed the 16-hour mark out of his targeted 58-hour play.
Announcing his progress on his social media account, Onakoya stated, “16 hours in, 42 to go. There’s no stopping till we hit our target.”
Atiku, via his social media account, conveyed his well wishes, stating, “I join millions of Nigerians at home and abroad… Your can-do spirit thus far has been truly inspirational. I am rooting for you to break new ground.”
Numerous dignitaries have also sent their support to Onakoya.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, encouraged him with the words, “Every grand victory starts with a single, bold move akin to a daring gambit—a bold move to redefine possibilities. Lagos is rooting for you as you attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon at Times Square in the heart of New York.”
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo shared a photo of himself playing chess with Onakoya and expressed his support, saying, “Dear Tunde, best of luck in Times Square… Your resilience and spirit inspire us all. Remember your own powerful words: ‘It is possible to do great things from a small place.”
He added, “Let the dynamic energy of Times Square amplify the greatness that you, a proud Nigerian, bring to the chessboard. We’re all behind you—show the world the strength and determination you are made of!”
The marathon, which commenced on April 17 at 10 am in New York City’s Times Square, is scheduled to conclude on April 19 at 8 pm.
Onakoya, who announced his attempt on April 5, cited his motivation as “doing this for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education.”
The current record stands at 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway in November 2018.
