The Chess Master, Mr. Tunde Onakoya has delightly said that he felt proud to be a Nigerian from Ago Iwoye, Ogun State.
Onakoya, who is the current Guinness World Record Holder for the longest Chess Marathon in history spoke during a visit to the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun in his office at Oke Mosan, Abeokuta.
Mr. Onakoya had earlier told the governor of his immense gratitude for the support he received from Nigerians in his march to stardom.
The Chess Master, who recalled his challenges while growing up, noted that he saw chess "as a way out of poverty and ability to think critically beyond the surface".
“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".
He added: "the honour accorded me by our royal fathers and His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, my state governor is also appreciated ” Onakoya said.
While playing host to Onakoya, Abiodun announced him as state's sports ambassador as well as disclosed that the state would commence a Chess Competition across the 20 council areas of the state in Adekoya's honour.
Abiodun, who commended Onakoya's achievement at the global level, said this could not have been possible without determination and resilience and hard work.
His words: “I can see why you continue to be inspiration to many young people across the length and breath of this country. You have gone further by establishing a foundation called the ‘Chess in Slums Africa’ because you are determined to tell your story and encourage other children and get them out of the slums and give them hope and future.
“Today, we will be officially appointing you as our state sports ambassador. Coincidentally, Ogun State will be hosting the National Sports Festival in the next nine months or thereabouts
"We are boasting that we are set to host the best National Sports Festival that has never been held in the history of this country and coincidentally, chess is one of the games that will feature in that event.
“I have decided that because of you and in your honour, we will begin an Ogun State Chess Competition across the length and breath 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.
Abiodun likened the travails of the chess master to that of millions of youths in Nigeria who are struggling to make something out of their lives.
He noted that his achievements in the face of difficulties was a testimony that life does not recognise where one comes from, place of birth or parent’s status in the society.
The governor commended the longest chess marathon holder in the world, for his resolve to succeed without engaging in dubious activities.
Abiodun said with the feat, Onakoya had joined the league of illustrious sons and daughters who have done Ogun State proud in their chosen endeavours.