The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has named National Chess Master Tunde Onakoya as the Sports Ambassador of the State following his record-setting chess marathon at Times Square in New York.
This announcement was made on Thursday when Onakoya was welcomed in the governor’s office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. Additionally, the governor declared the start of a statewide chess competition in Onakoya’s honor, to take place across the state.
Admiring the National Chess Master’s global accomplishments, the governor stated that such success is a testament to Onakoya’s determination, resilience, and hard work.
“You are an inspiration to many young people throughout this country, and your establishment of the ‘Chess in Slums Africa’ foundation is a further testament to your commitment to share your story, uplift children from slums, and offer them hope and a future,” he remarked.
“Today, we officially appoint you as our State Sports Ambassador. In a fortunate coincidence, Ogun State is preparing to host the National Sports Festival in about nine months, aiming to deliver the most outstanding festival ever held in this nation’s history, with chess featured as one of the main events.”
“I have decided that because of you and in your honour, we will begin an Ogun State Chess Competition across the length and breadth of the state. Since you are now officially our Sports Ambassador and our Chess Ambassador, we will leave it to you to design that competition from the local government all the way to the state level.
“But we as your state, we will have a sponsor in the Tunde Onakoya Prize, for the winner of that competition,” the governor explained.
The governor likened the journey of the Chess Master to that of millions of youths in Nigeria who are struggling to make something out of their lives, stating that his achievements in the face of difficulties is a testimony that life does not recognize where one comes from, place of birth or parent’s status in the society.
He commended Onakoya for his resolve to succeed without engaging in dubious activities, noting that with the feat, he has joined the league of illustrious sons and daughters who have done Ogun State proud in their chosen endeavours.
Onakoya had earlier told the governor of his immense gratitude for the support he received from Nigerians in his march to stardom, adding that he felt proud to be a Nigerian.
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He also reflected on his childhood challenges, viewing chess as an escape from poverty and a means to develop critical thinking skills.
Onakoya recognized chess’s lack of popularity in the country, attributing it to a misunderstanding of the game’s value.
He mentioned that he has redoubled his efforts to popularize the game in Lagos, Kenya, and other African regions, working with his team and Lufthansa Airlines to introduce chess at the grassroots level.
Onakoya expressed his determination to set a new world record, surpassing the 56-hour mark previously thought to be the human limit by playing for 60 hours.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun for the recognition given to him and his family, committing to collaborate with the government to make chess appealing to young people.
“I am proud to be Nigerian, hailing from Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State. The immense support I received from Nigerians worldwide, the honors from our royal fathers, and His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, my state’s Governor, filled me with great honor and happiness,” Onakoya stated.
