Nigeria’s Tunde Onakoya Crosses 20-Hour Mark in Chess Marathon

Tunde Onakoya, Nigeria’s ambitious chess master, is on the verge of a historic achievement as he crosses the 20-hour mark to break the Guinness World Record for the longest unbeaten chess marathon.

Onakoya‘s marathon began on April 17 at 10 a.m. in New York City’s Times Square and will conclude on April 19 at 8 p.m. With 20 hours behind him, he now faces another 38 hours to reach his target.

The chess maestro shared his progress on his social media account, expressing his determination to keep pushing until he reaches his goal.

As he stated earlier, his motivation for the attempt is to inspire millions of African children without access to education.

The record of 56 hours, 9 minutes, and 37 seconds, set in 2018 by Norwegian players, stands as the target Onakoya seeks to surpass.

Nigerian leaders, including former Vice Presidents Yemi Osinbajo and Atiku Abubakar and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have extended their support and encouragement to Onakoya.

The chess master’s initiative builds on his previous work, particularly his Chess in Slums project, which has uplifted the lives of underprivileged children in communities like Oshodi and Makoko.

As Onakoya continues his marathon, the world eagerly watches, eager to witness history unfold in Times Square.