How Tunde Onakoya Is Using Chess to Transform Lives

Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has made history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon. Teaming up with U.S. chess master Shawn Martinez, Onakoya pushed past the previous 61-hour record, reaching over 62 hours on Sunday and aiming for an ambitious 70-hour target. Sharing the achievement on X.com, he wrote, “For all the dreamers! We’ve officially broken the record!” But beyond setting records, the marathon carries a deeper mission: raising funds and awareness to build the largest free school for homeless children in Nigeria.

Onakoya posed a powerful question to his followers: “If you had 70 hours to change the world, what would you do?” His message underscores the importance of action and advocacy for children in need, noting that each hour spent playing is dedicated to kids without access to education or opportunity. He also revealed that proceeds from the sale of his limited edition chess sets will go directly toward supporting this vision. For Onakoya, the ultimate goal is clear—ensuring that no child has to give up their childhood just to survive.

Written By: Omotade Victor