Nigerian chess prodigy Tunde Onakoya is on a mission to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon while raising funds to support education for underprivileged youth.
Tunde Onakoya, the convener of Chess in Slums Africa, a non-profit organization based in Lagos, aims to surpass the previous 56-hour record with a 58-hour run in the bid to “raise a million dollars and bring the gift of chess to children across the world”.
“Our program aims to address challenges stemming from limited access to quality education and resources by focusing on skills that are academically enriching, practical, and relevant to their daily lives,” Onakoya told FORBES AFRICA in an exclusive interview recently.
Onakoya’s endeavor has garnered attention, donation, and support from various quarters.
After headlining at Madison Square Garden, Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Davido made a surprise visit to Onakoya’s chess marathon in the open air of Times Square, a major commercial intersection, tourist destination, entertainment hub, and neighborhood in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, United States.
Onakoya took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his gratitude, stating, “30 billion for the children as @davido places his chain around my neck. Thank you very much for stopping by after your successful outing at @TheGarden.”
He has also received support from other notable personalities, including Nigerian Afrobeats artist Adekunle Gold, who also visited the marathon earlier.
Onakoya received messages of goodwill from the federal government of Nigeria, state governors, and the US Mission in Nigeria.
The attempt, which officially commenced 11.30AM (EST) on April 17 is expected to end around 10PM (EST) today.