Indeed Nigeria is a country filled with talented, brave and intelligent youths. It takes nothing but bravery to attempt a world record such as this as chess game is a game for brilliant minds.
Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, has victoriously set a new world record for the longest chess marathon.
Although he originally planned to set the record at 58 hours, he persevered for a grueling 60 hours before finally halting his historic challenge in Times Square, New York City.
This historic achievement shatters the previous record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds set by Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad of Norway in November 2018.
Before aiming to break the record of 60 hours in the early hours of Saturday, the Chess master, shared a photo on his X account with the inscription ‘record broken’ “We have done it
“We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why – the reason we are doing this.
“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen.”
The previous Guinness World Record holder of 56-hour, 9-minute mark was set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.
Upon approval by the Guinness World Records, Onakoya’s feat will officially eclipse the nearly six-year-old record.
However, Onakoya’s record-breaking attempt has garnered immense attention, fueled not only by the ambitious time goal but also by his mission to raise $1 million for underprivileged children worldwide.
The global chess community has rallied behind the “Chess in Slums Africa” founder, with Nigerians across the world offering their unwavering support.
Onakoya is no stranger to using chess as a tool for social good.
His “Chess in Slums Africa” project has already demonstrably improved the lives of countless young Nigerians in Oshodi, Makoko, and other underserved communities in Nigeria by providing them with educational opportunities and removing them from potentially risky environments.
The funds raised through this record-breaking marathon will now fuel a global expansion of his impactful initiative.
As of Saturday morning, Onakoya’s inspiring effort has garnered $100,000+ in donations.
Once the Guinness World Records officially recognises his achievement, Onakoya will join the ranks of distinguished Nigerians who have written their names in the record books.
In the spirit of excitement and celebration, Nigerians all over the world have flood social media space to celebrate the Nigerian born chess master, with some saying that this is not just a win for one but a win for the country.
Tunde onakoya have not only inscribed his name in gold, he has likewise done same for his country Nigeria.