Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has honored Tunde Onakoya, a distinguished National Chess Master, with the title of Sports Ambassador of the State.
This accolade comes in the wake of Onakoya’s record-setting chess marathon in Times Square, New York.
The announcement was made on Thursday during Onakoya’s visit to the governor’s office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. In addition, Governor Abiodun revealed plans for a statewide chess competition dedicated to Onakoya’s achievements.
Governor Abiodun praised Onakoya’s global success, attributing it to his unwavering determination, resilience, and hard work. He remarked, “Your story is an inspiration to our youth, and your ‘Chess in Slums Africa’ foundation is a beacon of hope for many.”
As part of his new role, Onakoya will oversee the design of the Ogun State Chess Competition, which aims to foster talent from local communities to the state level. The competition’s top prize will be named the Tunde Onakoya Prize in his honor.
The governor drew parallels between Onakoya’s journey and the struggles of Nigerian youth, emphasizing that success is not determined by one’s background but by their efforts and achievements.
Onakoya expressed his deep appreciation for the support from Nigerians and shared his vision of chess as a tool for overcoming poverty and fostering critical thinking.
Despite chess’s relative obscurity in Nigeria, Onakoya is committed to popularizing the game, working with partners like Lufthansa Airlines to introduce chess at the grassroots level.
His determination led him to surpass the previously held world record for continuous chess play, setting a new benchmark at 60 hours.
Grateful for the recognition, Onakoya pledged to collaborate with the government to promote chess among the youth, further contributing to the state’s legacy of excellence.
“I am proud to be a Nigerian and from Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State. I felt highly honoured and happy in the way Nigerians all over the world supported me immensely to achieve this feats and the honour accorded me by our royal fathers and His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, my state Governor,” Onakoya said.
