Nigerian chess prodigy and *Chess in Slums Africa* founder, Tunde Onakoya, has officially set a new world record for the longest chess marathon — clocking in at 64 hours alongside his partner, U.S. chess master Shawn Martinez. The historic feat took place in Times Square, New York, surpassing the previous record of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds held by Norwegian duo Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, set in June 2024.
The marathon began on April 17 and lasted four days, originally aiming for a 70-hour target. Sharing his achievement on social media, Onakoya posted: “It is possible to do great things from a small place.” Guinness World Records confirmed the new record with a certificate that read: “The longest chess marathon was achieved by Tunde Onakoya (Nigeria) and Shawn Martinez (Puerto Rico) in Times Square, New York, USA from 17 to 20 April 2025.”
Onakoya, 30, had previously gained international attention for a 60-hour chess marathon in 2024. But for him, this latest challenge was about more than just setting records. “We’re not just doing this for ourselves—we’re doing it for a million dreams,” he said. “We want to build the biggest preschool in Africa for homeless children.”
He emphasized that the hardest part wasn’t staying awake for three days, but rather staying committed to a purpose bigger than himself. “My dream is to inspire the world and raise support to build the biggest free school for homeless children in Nigeria,” he added.
During the marathon, New York’s Nigerian community turned out in support, bringing traditional dishes like jollof rice and local music. Nigerian music icon Davido also backed Onakoya publicly, gifting him a 30BG chain in recognition of his accomplishment.
Back home, the achievement drew praise from leaders. Vice President Kashim Shettima called it a testament to “excellence and resilience that distinguishes Nigerians globally,” while Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said it was proof that “greatness can emerge from anywhere.”
Onakoya’s initial record attempt also doubled as a $1 million fundraising campaign for Chess in Slums Africa, which has so far provided education and scholarships to over 200 underprivileged children. The initiative has also helped distribute one million chess sets across underserved communities in collaboration with The Gift of Chess.
In a January 2024 interview with Channels TV, Onakoya shared how growing up in poverty shaped his compassion. “The real pain isn’t just lacking money,” he said, “it’s being cut off from education and justice.” His life’s mission is now to be the kind of support he once needed.
A self-taught chess master, Onakoya learned the game in a local barber’s shop. Raised by a hardworking mother who cleaned offices to fund his education, he later earned a degree in computer science from Yaba College of Technology. His efforts have earned him national recognition, including his appointment as a sports ambassador for Ogun State in April 2024 by Governor Dapo Abiodun, who praised him as a symbol of youth determination and hope.
Source : https://www.channelstv.com/
