Tunde Onakoya: Breaking Glass Ceilings and Changing Lives

Tunde Onakoya Breaks Guinness World Record with 64-Hour Chess Marathon in New York

Nigerian chess maestro and social impact advocate Tunde Onakoya has made history once again. On Friday, April 20, 2025, Tunde officially broke the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, completing an intense 64-hour session at New York’s Times Square with his playing partner, National Master Shawn Martinez.

What makes this story even more inspiring is the heart behind it. Tunde, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, wasn’t just out to break a record for the sake of it; he was on a mission to raise $1 million to fund education for underprivileged children across Africa. Tunde is the definition of admirable.

The event, which ran from April 17 to 20, wasn’t without its challenges. The duo originally set out to play for 70 hours, but they decided to wrap up at 64 hours, a symbolic nod to the 64 squares on a chessboard. Reflecting on the feat, Tunde described it as “a painful ride”, but the overwhelming support from Nigerians at home and abroad, chess lovers, and change-makers alike kept him going. Live streams, media coverage, and an outpouring of love on social media helped amplify the moment into a global movement.

Let’s not forget: this wasn’t his first attempt. In April 2024, Tunde played for 60 hours, but that effort was not officially approved as a world record. This time, every guideline was followed to the letter, ensuring that this remarkable feat was not only inspiring but also officially recognised.

The National Diaspora Commission of Nigeria also celebrated the win on social media, calling it a moment of pride and encouragement for young Nigerians everywhere.

PRESS RELEASE

DABIRI – EREWA APPLAUDS TUNDE ONAKOYA ON GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR LONGEST CHESS MARATHON

Abuja: April 21, 2025.

The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Nigerian… pic.twitter.com/iqc6bp4TIS

— Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (@nidcom_gov) April 21, 2025

 At the heart of it all is a young man using his gift to uplift others, and that’s the real win.

Here’s to Tunde Onakoya, proving once again that greatness isn’t just about talent but about vision, grit, and the courage to keep going when it gets tough.