Nigerian chess prodigy, Tunde Onakoya has set a new Guinness World Record From April 17 to April 20, 2024, In the heart of New York City’s electric Times Square.
With one strategic move at a time, social impact trailblazer, has carved his name into history.
Onakoya engaged in an unrelenting 60-hour chess marathon, surpassing the previous Guinness World Record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set by two Norwegian players in 2018.
But this wasn’t just about shattering records — it was about rewriting the narrative for Africa’s undeserved youth, one pawn and one dream at a time.
As the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya transformed the marathon into a global fundraising campaign, with a bold mission: raise $1 million to fund the education of children living in impoverished communities across Africa. Armed with nothing but a chessboard and unyielding purpose, he used his intellect and stamina to spotlight the power of opportunity and education.
The spectacle drew waves of support. Nigerian music stars Davido and Adekunle Gold lent their voices, while dignitaries like former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and crowds of Nigerians in the diaspora rallied in solidarity. Social media buzzed with hashtags, while Times Square crowds watched in awe as the game of kings was transformed into a movement for change.
Sleep-deprived but resolute, Onakoya played with passion, grit, and a message that echoed beyond the squares of the board: where you start in life should never determine where you can go.
His triumph is now official, but the impact is just beginning. International outlets from Euro news to Al Jazeera hailed the achievement, not just for its stamina, but for its spirit. Tunde Onakoya has proved that a chessboard can be a battleground for dreams — and he’s playing to win for a generation.
