Nigerian chess prodigy Tunde Onakoya has etched his name in history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
Onakoya’s remarkable feat surpassed the previous record of 56 hours and 9 minutes set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
Onakoya’s marathon, which aims to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa, has captivated audiences globally. Currently striving to reach the 58-hour mark, Onakoya remains resolute in his mission to support the educational endeavors of disadvantaged youth.
Founder of the non-profit organization Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya utilises the game of chess as a powerful tool for social intervention, fostering connections between marginalized children and their aspirations.
Through initiatives such as tuition-free education, provision of learning resources, and mentorship opportunities, Chess in Slums Africa is spearheading an inclusive future for every African child.
Embracing the challenge with unwavering determination, he declared on his official X handle, “We’re pushing to 60 hours guys. We’re not stopping yet. Let’s keep going.
“We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why – the reason we are doing this.
“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen,” he added.
