President Bola Tinubu has received chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa Tunde Onakoya, at his Lagos residence.
He praised the young chess advocate for his inspiring work transforming the lives of children through the game of chess.
During the visit, Onakoya presented his recently attained Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
He also gifted the President a gold plated Adire chess board.
Tinubu, in a statement on his official X handle described the achievement as a powerful symbol of the “resilience and brilliance of Nigeria’s youth.”
Tinubu expressed interest in seeing Onakoya’s initiative scaled nationwide, adding that he looked forward to further discussions in Abuja on how the federal government could support and partner with his efforts.
The statement reads: “I received Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, at my residence today where he also presented his World Record for the longest Chess Marathon.
“Tunde’s journey, from the streets of Lagos to uplifting underserved children and breaking world records, reflects the resilience and brilliance of Nigeria’s youth.
“Through chess, he opens minds and transforms lives in communities that are too often overlooked. I would love to see how his work can be replicated nationwide and I am looking forward to seeing him in Abuja to hear how the government can support him
“Tunde Onakoya’s vision aligns with our administration’s: no child left behind, no talent wasted.
“Nigeria is proud of him, and we will walk with him.”
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.
