TUNDE ONAKOYA’S UNSTOPPABLE QUEST: A RECORD-BREAKING CHESS MARATHON FOR AFRICA’S FUTURE

Nigerian Chess Prodigy and Philanthropist Tunde Onakoya Sets New World Record in Marathon Chess

Tunde Onakoya, born on October 6, 1994, in Ikorodu, Lagos, is not just a formidable force in chess; he’s a visionary leader dedicated to changing lives through chess. On April 20, 2024, he shattered the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, playing non-stop for 60 hours in Times Square, New York City. This remarkable feat surpassed the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.

Onakoya’s journey to chess stardom is a tale of resilience and determination. Raised in the slums of Ikorodu, he first learned to play chess in a barber’s shop. He soon demonstrated a prodigious talent for the game. Financial constraints nearly derailed his education, but his mother’s sacrifice—working as a cleaner to cover his school fees—allowed him to continue. This humble beginning did not stop him from rising through the ranks, eventually becoming the 13th highest-rated chess player in Nigeria, with a peak rating of 2197 in July 2016.

A graduate of Yaba College of Technology with a diploma in computer science, Onakoya’s talent was not confined to the academic sphere. He won accolades at various national tournaments, including the Nigeria Polytechnic Games and the RCCG Chess Championship. His passion for chess and its transformative power led him to establish Chess in Slums Africa in September 2018, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering children in impoverished communities through chess. Since its inception, Chess in Slums Africa has trained over 200 children, securing lifelong scholarships for 20 beneficiaries.

One of the most heartwarming stories from his initiative is that of Ferdinand, a 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy, who won a chess tournament in Makoko and later competed against Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State. Such inspiring tales underscore the organization’s mission to uplift the disadvantaged and demonstrate the potential of every child, regardless of their circumstances.

In 2020, Chess in Slums Africa partnered with Chess.com, using the platform as an educational tool to further their mission. Onakoya’s commitment to this cause has attracted global attention, including features on CNN African Voices and board membership at the New York City-based non-profit, The Gift of Chess.

The chess marathon in New York was more than a record-breaking attempt; it was a fundraising mission that secured $1 million. This amount would be used for the education of children in Africa. Onakoya’s cause drew widespread support, including backing from the Nigerian community in New York, former Vice President of Nigeria Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and appearances by Afrobeats stars like Davido and Adekunle Gold.

Onakoya’s record-breaking performance is a testament to his unyielding spirit and dedication to creating opportunities for children who, like him, have faced significant challenges. As he continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of chess, Onakoya’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to dream big and reach higher. His story is not just about chess; it’s about using one’s talents to make a lasting impact on the world.

Tunde Onakoya is a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder that with determination, every challenge can be transformed into a stepping stone to greatness. His relentless pursuit of excellence and passion for education exemplify the true spirit of giving back, proving that sometimes, the game of life is more than just winning—it’s about making every move count.