Interactor Onyeji David Chimbuchi, a member of Ikotun Senior High School’s Interact Club sponsored by the Rotary Club of Egbeda, has been appointed as the Rotary District Interact Representative for Lagos State and Ogun State of Rotary District 9110.

Chimbuchi, in his acceptance speech, emphasized the significant impact of youth empowerment and service.

Expressing gratitude in a heartfelt address, David thanked his family, mentors, and community for their steadfast support. He specifically recognized the instrumental role played by his parents, school authorities, and fellow Interact Club members in shaping his leadership journey.

David commended Prince Bashiru Adebowale, the Tutor General and Permanent Secretary District 1, Lagos State Ministry of Education, for his guidance and acknowledged the Rotary Club of Egbeda for their mentorship and backing. He also extended appreciation to the Rotaract Club of Egbeda and highlighted the visionary leadership of Rotary District 9110.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, David stressed the importance of self-discovery through service and pledged to serve with integrity, humility, and dedication.

The appointment of David Onyeji signifies a promising new phase in the realm of service, marked by hope, compassion, and limitless potential.

Ahead of the installation ceremony, Rotary District 9110 Governor, Rotarian Ifeyinwa Rita Ejezie, warmly welcome all present and enumerated the core values of the Rotary international emphasizing that the Rotary Club’s commitment to serving humanity, especially the underprivileged is unwavering.

The installation ceremony, held at the Rotary District Center, was attended by District Governor Ifeyinwa Rita Ejezie and her delegation, District Interact Chairman Favour Madu, Prince Bashir Adewale TG/PS, District 1, represented by Mrs. [name], Mrs. Oyelehin A A (Principal of Ikotun Senior High School), Mrs. Abosede Obiakalusi (Matron of the Interact Club of ISHS), Interact Club members of ISHS, the President of the Rotary Club of Egbeda, Rotarian Lawal, along with some of his executive members, and members of the press.

The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, hosted Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, at the Lagos House, Ikeja, on Wednesday.

This follows Onakoya’s return from New York City, where he set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon of 60 hours.

Onakoya received a heartwarming welcome upon his return to Nigeria on Wednesday.

Sharing from Onakoya’s visit on his X handle, Sanwo-Olu wrote, “Powerful visions birth movements that change lives. Today, we welcomed back #Tunde_OD , our chess champion, to Lagos.

“His journey embodies the spirit of Lagos—resilient, ambitious, and driven to succeed. As we celebrate his achievements, we’re inspired by his vision for empowering our children and youth.”

Sanwo-Olu also mentioned that the state will provide resources to support Onakoya’s mission and ensure that every child in Lagos has the opportunity to thrive through chess.

He added, “Together with Tunde and the transformative power of Chess, we’ll work towards a future where every child in Lagos has the opportunity to realise their full potential.

“The state proudly supports his mission, purposefully providing resources to fuel this noble cause now and in the future.”

Onakoya, alongside his United States partner, Shawn Martinez, on Saturday, broke the record of Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56 hours and 9- minutes in 2018.

Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian chess master, has celebrated his United States counterpart, Shawn Martinez, following the completion of their 60-hour game to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.

A statement by Onakoya’s foundation, Chess in Slums Africa, revealed that the duo, who both hold the title of National Masters in chess, played against each other throughout the challenge, and they will both hold the record title.

In a post on his X handle on Saturday, Onakoya lauded Martinez’s role in their success.

He wrote, “Dear Shawn, there’s no world record without you.

“Together, for 60 hours, we showed the world what true collaboration means, trumping competition.

“We picked each other up during tough moments, both mentally and physically. And you did it with so much grace.”

Onakoya further expressed his gratitude to Martinez by calling him “brother” and congratulating him on their shared achievement.

He added, “This is a public acknowledgement and gratitude to you, my brother. Congratulations on our shared achievement.”

The duo broke the record of Norwegian players, Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56 hours, 09 minutes, and 37 seconds in 2018.

Onakoya had revealed that his attempt was to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa.