In a thrilling turn of events, Nigerian superstar Davido made a surprise appearance at Times Square to support Tunde Onakoya, who was in the midst of a remarkable 58-hour chess marathon for the Guinness World Records (GWR).
The “Blow My Mind” singer’s unexpected visit on Thursday, April 18, 2024, electrified the atmosphere, drawing a massive crowd of fans and onlookers eager to catch a glimpse of the music sensation. This heartwarming gesture of solidarity from Davido served as a powerful morale boost for Onakoya, who was already making waves with his impressive endurance and dedication to the game of chess.
Davido’s presence at Times Square was not merely a show of support for Onakoya’s world record attempt; it also underscored the importance of education and the pivotal role that influential figures can play in promoting its value. In a powerful statement, Davido emphasized the need for every child to have access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.
The chess prodigy Onakoya, who has been coaching children in some of Nigeria’s most impoverished areas, expressed his gratitude for Davido’s unwavering support.
“Having Davido here today is a testament to the power of unity and the importance of education,” Onakoya said. “His presence has not only motivated me to push through this marathon but also inspired countless young minds to believe in their potential and strive for greatness.”
As Onakoya continues his quest to break the GWR for the longest continuous chess marathon, the global community watches with bated breath, captivated by his determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation through the game of chess. With Davido’s backing and the inspiration he has ignited, Onakoya’s efforts are poised to leave a lasting impact on the world, transcending the boundaries of music, chess, and education.
Notable figures such as Tony Elumelu, Adekunle Gold, and Yemi Osinbajo have also expressed their admiration and encouragement for Onakoya’s world record attempt.
In addition to the support from these influential figures, Onakoya’s USA counterpart, Shawn Martinez, has pledged to remain his co-player throughout the marathon, aiming to share the record with him.
This partnership not only highlights the global reach of the chess community but also underscores the unifying power of the game, transcending borders and cultures.
Beyond the world record attempt, Onakoya has set a fundraising goal of $1000,000 which will be directed towards supporting Chess in Slums Africa and its mission to empower underprivileged children through education and the game of chess.
This initiative, coupled with his world record attempt, has the potential to create a significant impact on the lives of countless young minds, inspiring them to overcome adversity and strive for success.
With the support of Davido, Tony Elumelu, Adekunle Gold, Yemi Osinbajo, Martinez, and countless others, Tunde Onakoya’s 58-hour chess marathon is more than just a quest for a world record; it is a testament to the power of unity, the importance of education, and the transformative potential of chess.
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