The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind chess master Tunde Onakoya’s bid to surpass the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon without losing a game.

Similarly, prominent and other Nigerians have declared their support for him and wished him well in his ambition.

Among those rooting for his success are Vice President Kashim Shettima, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, artistes Davido and Adekunle Gold, and the 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore.

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 Shettima shared a post on his official X account showing his support.

“We are not only proud of the ambition of the chess maverick, Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD), in his attempt to break the Guinness World Record for playing chess for 58 hours without losing a game, but also of his humanitarian interventions and his representation of Nigeria on the global stage through this game of brilliant minds.

“Mr. Onakoya is a symbol of excellence and resilience that distinguish Nigerians both at home and abroad, and we stand with him in spirit as he captivates the world from Times Square, New York City. Go, make history, and inscribe our name in gold, his post read.

Also, the governor of Lagos state backed the ambition on behalf of the state, describing Tunde’s Guinness World Record attempt as a daring move.

“Every grand victory starts with a single, bold move akin to a daring gambit—a bold move to redefine possibilities.

“@Tunde_OD; Lagos is rooting for you as you attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon at Times Square in the heart of New York.

“Taking the story of the phenomenal work you started in Lagos with young children to a global stage is a powerful testament to how greatness can emerge from anywhere,” he stated in his post.

The ICIR reports that Davido, his wife Chioma, and other 30BG crew members went to the chess location in Times Square, New York, to support Tunde.

In an online video, Davido is seen hugging the Nigerian chess master.

Similarly, Adekunle Gold showed his support with his presence, cash donations and gadgets needed for the live streaming of the game.

Sowore was also present at Times Square to support Onakoya.

Onakoya embarked on the challenge on Wednesday, April 17.

According to him, he aims to play for 58 consecutive hours and raise $1m to support the aspirations of millions of children in Africa who lack access to education.

Onakoya has played for over 40 hours and raised more than $40,000.

Currently, the record title is being held by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, two Norwegians who broke the record in 2018 after playing for 56 hours, 9 minutes and 37 seconds.