By Marvellous Nyang
April 20, 2025
Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has made history, setting a new Guinness World Record by playing chess nonstop for 62 hours in New York City’s Times Square from April 17 to 20, 2025.
This remarkable feat surpassed the previous record of 61 hours held by Norwegian players and Onakoya’s own earlier record of 60 hours set in 2024.
The marathon was played alongside U.S. National Master, Shawn Martinez, and it was more than just a test of endurance, it was a powerful charitable initiative.
Onakoya aims to raise $1 million to build Nigeria’s largest free school for homeless children, providing educational opportunities to underprivileged youth and transforming lives through chess and learning.
Despite intense physical challenges, including vomiting and extreme fatigue, Onakoya remained resolute throughout the event.
The marathon attracted significant global media attention, with coverage by CNN, BBC, and the New York Times, and was streamed live to engage supporters worldwide.
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As the founder of the non-profit organisation, Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya uses chess as a tool to empower children living in impoverished Nigerian communities.
His journey from learning chess in Lagos slums to becoming a world record holder and advocate for education has inspired many across Africa and beyond.
The event was supported by the Nigerian diaspora in New York, prominent Nigerian figures, and Afrobeats stars, underscoring its cultural and social significance.
In his own words, Onakoya dedicated every move of the marathon to children who have never had a second chance, emphasising perseverance, hope, and the transformative power of dreams.
This record-breaking marathon highlights Tunde Onakoya’s dedication to using chess as a vehicle for social change and education in Africa, inspiring hope and opportunity for vulnerable children through the power of the game.
