Nigerian chess master and founder of the “Chess in Slums” initiative, Tunde Onakoya, has etched his name in global history after breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. The marathon, which took place in New York’s iconic Times Square, saw Onakoya play non-stop chess for 60 hours, surpassing the previous world record of 56 hours and 9 minutes.

With this remarkable feat, Onakoya not only secured a place in the Guinness World Records but also brought immense pride to Nigeria and Africa at large. The event, which started on Wednesday, April 17, ended in the early hours of Saturday, April 20, amid cheers, celebration, and an outpouring of support both on-site and from across the globe.

A Record-Breaking Purpose

Unlike typical Guinness record attempts, Onakoya’s marathon was driven by a cause beyond personal achievement. The initiative was aimed at raising $1 million to support the education of underprivileged children across Africa through his nonprofit, Chess in Slums Africa. Over the years, his organization has used chess as a tool to empower children from some of Nigeria’s poorest neighborhoods.

Speaking moments after completing the marathon, Onakoya said, “This was never just about the record. It was about the children in the slums who have never been given a fair shot at life. I did this for them. To show them and the world that greatness can come from anywhere.”

The Marathon Challenge

The record attempt, governed by strict Guinness World Records guidelines, required continuous play against a single opponent, with only brief breaks allowed. Onakoya was accompanied by his playing partner and fellow Nigerian chess player, Shawn Martinez, a U.S. National Master. The duo played multiple games back-to-back with only five-minute breaks every hour and a longer 15-minute break every four hours.

The marathon tested both physical stamina and mental endurance. Supporters at Times Square watched as Onakoya, fuelled by determination and the support of his countrymen, battled through exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and physical discomfort to push beyond the 60-hour mark.

Global and National Support

Throughout the record attempt, Onakoya received massive support from Nigerians at home and abroad. Celebrities, political figures, and chess enthusiasts rallied behind the cause. Social media platforms buzzed with messages of encouragement under the hashtag #ChessMarathon and #TundeOnakoya, which trended for days.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a congratulatory message issued through his media team, described Onakoya as “a shining example of the Nigerian spirit—resilient, determined, and purpose-driven.” He added that Onakoya’s achievement is “a testament to the power of using talent for impact.”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and several state governors also praised Onakoya for using his platform to promote education and uplift the less privileged. The Lagos State Government, where Onakoya’s journey with chess began, expressed pride and support for his achievement.

An Unforgettable Scene at Times Square

As Onakoya crossed the 60-hour mark, a crowd of Nigerians and international supporters erupted into celebration at Times Square. Nigerian flags waved proudly as drums, songs, and cheers filled the air. The moment was deeply emotional, with Onakoya visibly tearful as he completed the final minutes of the challenge.

Among the crowd were members of the Nigerian community in New York, U.S. chess federation members, and representatives from humanitarian organizations. Volunteers offered food, drinks, and first aid to the exhausted but triumphant chess maestro.

The Man Behind the Mission

Tunde Onakoya, 29, rose to prominence through his efforts in transforming the lives of street children in Nigeria. Growing up in a low-income area of Lagos himself, he understands the struggles faced by children in urban slums. Through his Chess in Slums initiative, he has helped over a thousand children gain access to education, mentorship, and global opportunities.

His method is simple but powerful: teach chess to children in disadvantaged communities, then use that as a bridge to education and a better life. Some of his students have gone on to win local and international chess tournaments, changing the narratives of their lives.

Looking Ahead

Though visibly exhausted after the marathon, Onakoya reiterated his commitment to the cause. He revealed that the funds raised during the marathon would go directly into expanding educational programs across Nigeria and other African nations.

“The record will fade in time, but the impact will remain. My real joy comes from knowing that children will go to school because of what we did here,” he said.

The Guinness World Records team is expected to complete the formal verification process in the coming weeks, but organizers and witnesses are confident that the requirements have been met and exceeded.

A National Hero

Tunde Onakoya’s feat has resonated deeply with many Nigerians and Africans who see in him a symbol of hope, resilience, and the potential of using talent to drive social change. His story—one of humble beginnings, passion, and a clear mission—continues to inspire a generation.

For now, Nigeria celebrates a champion not only on the chessboard but in the hearts of millions. Tunde Onakoya has made history—not just in the Guinness Book—but in the fight for education, empowerment, and a better future for Africa’s most vulnerable.