Tunde Onakoya Returns to Break Guinness World Record with 70-Hour Chess Marathon at Times Square

New York City is once again buzzing with Nigerian brilliance, as Tunde Onakoya embarks on a mission to shatter the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest chess marathon — right in the heart of Times Square.

On Thursday, April 17, 2025, the founder of Chess in Slums Africa kicked off his 70-hour chess marathon with one goal: to not just win games, but win hearts and write history — again.

Surrounded by cheering fans and supporters, Onakoya’s new challenge is not just a personal milestone but a symbol of resilience, advocacy, and the sheer genius rising from African soil.

♟️ The Bigger Picture: More Than Just a Record

This is not Tunde’s first time at the table. In April 2024, he completed a 60-hour chess marathon alongside US master Shawn Martinez — a feat celebrated across Nigeria and the global chess community. Sadly, the Guinness World Records never officially recognized it, instead naming Norwegian duo Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn as record holders with 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds.

But instead of giving up, Tunde is back stronger — aiming for 70 hours, and this time, doing it solo with a loud, unbending Nigerian spirit.

💭 Opinion: Tunde Onakoya Is the Role Model This Generation Needs

In a world often overrun by fleeting fame and clout chasers, Tunde Onakoya stands out as a breath of fresh air. His journey from the slums of Lagos to the global spotlight is nothing short of inspirational. And even more commendably, he’s using that spotlight to uplift others.

This record attempt isn’t just about being a Guinness titleholder — it’s about putting African talent, especially from underserved communities, on the global map. It’s about telling a young child in Makoko or Ajegunle, “Your dreams are valid, and your brilliance is global.”

Tunde's effort is proof that grit, intelligence, and grace can change the world — and sometimes, a chessboard is all you need.

🗣️ Social Media Reacts

Already trending on social media with #TundeOnakoya, #ChessMarathon, and #NaijaToTheWorld, many Nigerians and global chess enthusiasts have rallied behind the record hopeful.

“History in the making! Times Square belongs to Africa tonight,” tweeted @ChessVibes.
“Tunde Onakoya is not just playing chess, he’s playing destiny,” said @NaijaNextGen.
“A true king. Win or lose, he has already won,” wrote @AFROIntellects.

🌍 Final Thoughts

While Guinness recognition may be the headline, the real victory is already happening: eyes from around the world are watching a Nigerian show that greatness can rise from anywhere — even from a slum, even from a chessboard.

From Lagos to Times Square, from overlooked to overachiever, Tunde Onakoya is not just playing games. He’s making moves for a generation.

So as the clock ticks, and pawns move, one thing is clear:

Africa is thinking many moves ahead. And the world is finally paying attention.

✊🏽 Are you rooting for Tunde? Drop a message of encouragement, and don’t forget to share the story!
#SupportTunde #ChessChampion #TimesSquareToTheWorld #70HoursOfGreatness #TundeVsTime