Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has lauded chess prodigy Tunde Onakoya for setting a remarkable 60-hour chess marathon world record.
Ezekwesili took to her social media platform to commend Onakoya’s dedication and perseverance. She referenced a biblical verse to underscore the boundless possibilities that await those who relentlessly pursue their dreams. She wrote, “And it came to pass. 1 Corinthians 2v9. ‘Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.’ Congratulations to you, #Tunde_OD! Your purposeful life will phenomenally unlock all you need to fulfil your dream for children today and generations to come. Godspeed!”
Onakoya surpassed the previous record set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who had played for 56 hours and 9 minutes in 2018.
His foundation, Chess in Slums Africa, provided an update, stating, “60 Hours for those who dare to dream! 60 Hours for the millions of children who have been told to abandon their dreams! 60 Hours because one person decided that there is no future worth dreaming of that does not include them! It is now #Tunde60HoursofChess #Tunde_OD.”
Onakoya’s marathon chess session was not just a personal achievement but also aimed at raising funds and awareness to provide educational opportunities for underprivileged children across Africa.
