President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, DIG Sani Mohammed (retd.), has extended congratulations to Tunde Onakyoya, the new Guinness World Record holder for the longest chess marathon. Onakyoya’s remarkable achievement has earned him praise as a distinguished chess ambassador.
Onakyoya surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds set in 2018 by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebo and Sjur Ferkingstad, reaching the 60-hour milestone. Initially aiming for a 58-hour session, he persevered until he surpassed the 60-hour mark around 12:40 am (04:40 GMT) on Saturday, setting a new benchmark for chess marathons.
Following his triumphant return to Lagos on Wednesday, Onakoya received a warm welcome at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport and was greeted by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the Government House in Ikeja.
Mohammed expressed the federation’s pride in Onakoya’s accomplishment.
“We are delighted by Tunde Onakoya’s achievement and feel a sense of pride,” he remarked. “This milestone is not only significant for Nigeria but also for Africa as a whole. Onakoya’s feat is unprecedented for any African, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to him.”
“He undertook this feat with noble intentions, which is why his achievement is being lauded; he truly deserves the recognition he’s receiving. We are intimately familiar with his character, which is why we recommended him to the FIDE social commission last year. Additionally, during the tournament held in Nigeria last year, where the FIDE president was in attendance, we arranged a visit to Makoko to showcase the impactful work being done there.
“He is a representative of our values and merits this celebration.”
The Nigerian chess maestro embarked on the marathon with the goal of raising $1 million for children’s education across Africa through his record attempt.
Throughout the record-breaking marathon game, Onakoya faced off against Shawn Martinez, an American chess champion, adhering to Guinness World Records guidelines that stipulate the participation of two players continuously engaged for the entire duration.
Despite grappling with health challenges during the marathon, including severe vomiting and stomach pain, Onakoya remained resolute.
