Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has named Tunde Onakoya, a National Chess Master, as the State Sports Ambassador following his remarkable achievement of setting a world record-breaking chess marathon campaign at Times Square in New York. The announcement was made during a meeting between the governor and Onakoya at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Thursday.
Governor Abiodun expressed his admiration for Onakoya's outstanding performance on the global stage, emphasizing the qualities of determination, resilience, and hard work that contributed to his success. He praised Onakoya for being an inspiration to many youths across Nigeria and beyond, citing his establishment of the 'Chess in Slums Africa' foundation as a testament to his commitment to uplifting disadvantaged children and providing them with hope and a future.
In recognition of Onakoya's achievements and his role as a beacon of hope, Governor Abiodun officially appointed him as the State Sports Ambassador. He also announced plans to organize the Ogun State Chess Competition throughout the state in honor of Onakoya. As part of the initiative, the governor proposed the establishment of the Tunde Onakoya Prize for the winner of the competition, demonstrating the state's commitment to supporting and promoting chess at the grassroots level.
Governor Abiodun likened Onakoya's journey to success to that of millions of Nigerian youths striving to overcome challenges and make a difference in their lives. He applauded Onakoya for his determination to succeed through legitimate means and commended him for bringing pride to Ogun State through his achievements.
Onakoya expressed his gratitude to Nigerians for their support and expressed pride in being Nigerian. He shared his childhood challenges and how he saw chess as a means to escape poverty and develop critical thinking skills. Onakoya acknowledged the lack of popularity of chess in Nigeria but highlighted efforts to promote the game locally and across Africa, including collaboration with Lufthansa Airlines to bring chess to grassroots communities.
He recounted his determination to break the world record for the longest chess game, which he achieved by playing for 60 hours straight. Onakoya thanked Governor Abiodun for the honor bestowed upon him and pledged to collaborate with the government to make chess more appealing to young people.
"I am proud to be Nigerian and from Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State. I am deeply honored by the overwhelming support I received from Nigerians worldwide and the recognition accorded to me by our traditional leaders and His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, my state Governor," Onakoya remarked.
