In a dazzling display of determination and skill, Nigerian chess prodigy Tunde Onakoya has etched his name into the annals of history, breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Under the bright lights of New York City’s Times Square, Onakoya astounded onlookers as he continued to make strategic moves after an impressive 58 consecutive hours of play.But Onakoya’s feat goes beyond mere endurance; it’s a testament to his unwavering commitment to a cause dear to his heart.
With a goal to raise $1 million for charity, specifically to bolster chess education for underprivileged children, Onakoya’s marathon wasn’t just about breaking records—it was about breaking barriers and opening doors of opportunity.Surrounded by a sea of supporters, including members of New York’s vibrant Nigerian community and even acclaimed Afrobeats sensation Davido, Onakoya found strength in solidarity.
Energized by the pulsating rhythms of Nigerian music and nourished by the comforting flavors of home-cooked dishes like jollof rice, he pressed on, fueled by a vision of a brighter future for countless young minds.Meanwhile, halfway across the globe, the people of Nigeria watched with bated breath as one of their own embarked on this historic journey.
Streaming live on Twitch, Onakoya’s quest captured the hearts and minds of viewers who hailed him as an inspiration and a beacon of hope.
“Thank you for daring to dream and showing us the levels to which we can all take our brain power to! Well done Tunde! I’m going to pick up my chess board back haha,” one commenter wrote, echoing the sentiments of many who saw in Onakoya’s perseverance a reflection of their own potential.
For Onakoya, chess isn’t just a game—it’s a lifeline. Growing up in the impoverished floating slums of Lagos, he knows firsthand the transformative power of education and opportunity. Through his non-profit organization, Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya is on a mission to share that power with others, teaching chess to children in marginalized communities and empowering them to dream beyond their circumstances.
As accolades pour in from around the world, Onakoya remains focused on the bigger picture, knowing that his record-breaking achievement is just the beginning. With each move on the chessboard, he’s paving the way for a brighter future, one where every child has the chance to thrive, regardless of where they come from.In a world too often divided by borders and barriers, Onakoya’s story is a reminder that greatness knows no bounds. From the streets of Lagos to the heart of New York City, his journey is proof that with passion, perseverance, and the support of a community united in purpose, anything is possible.