Under the beaming lights of New York’s iconic Times Square, Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has embarked on an ambitious challenge: to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. His goal? To play for an astounding 58 consecutive hours and raise a staggering $1 million (£805,000) for charity in the process, with the aim of using it to help underprivileged African kids.
The money raised by Tunde Onakoya’s marathon feat will support chess education for millions of children. But this isn’t just about moving pieces on a board; it’s about empowering young minds. Chess teaches strategic thinking, patience, and resilience—skills that extend far beyond the checkered squares. For Tunde, chess was more than a game; it was a lifeline.
From Lagos’s Floating Slums to the World Stage
Tunde Onakoya’s journey is one of triumph over adversity. Growing up in Lagos’s infamous floating slums, he faced overwhelming poverty. But chess became his refuge—a mental escape from the harsh realities. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about survival. Through sheer determination, Tunde honed his skills and emerged as a chess master.
Tunde’s NGO, Chess in Slums Africa, is his way of giving back. He teaches children from poor communities not only how to play chess but also how to dream beyond their circumstances. Education is the cornerstone, and chess is the vehicle. These young minds learn critical thinking, discipline, and the power of strategy. Tunde’s mission is to transform lives—one move at a time.
A Powerful Testament to Greatness
As Tunde Onakoya plays on, hundreds of supporters cheer him on. Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido stands among them, recognizing the significance of this endeavour. The Nigerian community in New York rallies behind their compatriot, energizing him with classic Nigerian dishes, including the beloved national staple, jollof rice. Back home in Nigeria, people watch him on Twitch, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and X, urging him to make history.
By the early hours of Friday, Tunde had played for 39 hours and raised over $42,000. As he crosses the halfway point, achieving the record seems “possible now.” His target: to play until at least 20:00 New York time, surpassing the current world record of 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds set by Norwegian duo Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018. By Saturday morning, Tunde Onakoya had made history by reaching 58 hours, beating the previously held record. Tunde aims to make it 60 hours.
The Gift of Chess: A Global Vision
Tunde Onakoya is also a board member of the US non-profit The Gift of Chess. Their ambitious goal? To distribute one million chess sets to underserved communities by 2030. Through chess, they aim to unlock potential, foster resilience, and create a brighter future for children worldwide.
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima aptly describes Tunde Onakoya as “a symbol of excellence and resilience.” Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that greatness can emerge from anywhere. Tunde’s marathon isn’t just about breaking records; it’s about rewriting narratives and inspiring generations.
As Tunde plays on, the chessboard becomes a canvas for hope, strategy, and transformation. His moves aren’t just about winning; they’re about changing lives—one pawn, one knight, and one child at a time. His goal is to make Nigeria and Africa proud.