Nigerian champion breaks Chess marathon world record

Nigeria is currently making waves on the map of global sports as the Founder of Chess in Slums Africa and Nigerian chess champion, Tunde Onakoya, has broken the chess marathon record of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds, set by two Norwegian players, Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, in June 2024.

The Nigerian Champion and his chess partner, Shawn Martinez, who commenced the four-day non-stop gameplay on April 17 are currently aiming to complete a 70-hour chess marathon in Times Square, New York.

Sharing a post on X shortly after surpassing the current record, Onakoya expressed fulfillment and called for action to educate and create opportunities for street children in Nigeria.

“For all the dreamers! We’ve officially BROKEN THE RECORD with my brother.

“We’re not just doing this for ourselves—we’re doing it for a million dreams. We want to build the biggest preschool in Africa for homeless children.

“The hardest part isn’t staying awake for three days—because a million dreams will do that. But now, more than ever, we need everyone’s support. If you’re in New York, show up at Times Square. Come support us. Help us inspire the world and show the world that it is indeed possible to do great things from a small place.

“My dream is to inspire the world and raise support to build the biggest free school for homeless children in Nigeria,” he added.
As the official confirmation from Guinness World Records is still being awaited, Nigerians and chess lovers from different parts of the world have congratulated the chess master on his latest achievement.

Recall, 30 year old Onakoya gained global recognition in April 2024 for completing a 60-hour chess marathon with Martinez, a US chess master.

Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his Ogun State counterpart, Dapo Abiodun, had all identified with the self-taught chess master, who learnt the game in a barber’s shop.