By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Nigerian chess champion Tunde Onakoya has begun a 70-hour chess marathon in New York City, aiming to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess game ever played.
This challenge, which started on April 17, 2025, at Times Square, is more than just about setting a record. It is part of Onakoya’s mission to raise awareness and funds for a cause close to his heart, building Nigeria’s largest free school for homeless children.
Onakoya, who is also behind Chess in Slums Africa, previously set a record with American chess expert Shawn Martinez in 2024, playing for 60 hours.
However, their achievement was soon surpassed by a Norwegian duo. Undeterred, they have returned for a new challenge, hoping to break the 70-hour mark.
As Onakoya battles through this intense mental feat, he has been joined by children from his Chess in Slums program, reinforcing his belief that greatness can arise from the most unexpected places.
He shared his vision, saying, “My dream is to inspire the world and raise support to build the biggest free school for homeless children in Nigeria.”
Through this event, Onakoya hopes to make an impact not only in the chess world but also in the lives of disadvantaged children.
