In the dynamic world of chess, a remarkable tale of perseverance and passion unfolds as Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya captivates New York’s iconic Times Square with a groundbreaking marathon event.
Onakoya’s ambitious endeavor involves playing chess for an unprecedented 58 consecutive hours, all while aiming to raise $1 million (£805,000) to support chess education for children. Surrounded by a fervent crowd of supporters, including renowned Nigerian Afrobeat star Davido, Onakoya draws strength from the unwavering backing of his community in both New York and his homeland, Nigeria.
Back in Lagos, esteemed figures such as Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, rally behind Onakoya, celebrating him as a symbol of Nigerian excellence. Online spectators from Nigeria and beyond tune into Twitch to closely monitor his quest to break the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon.
As the clock ticks past 3:00 a.m. New York time (07:00 GMT) on Friday, Onakoya has already clocked in an impressive 39 hours of gameplay and raised over $42,000. With confidence in his progress, he sets his sights on pushing through until 8:00 p.m. New York time on Friday, surpassing the existing record of 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds.
For Onakoya, chess holds a profound significance, serving as his beacon of hope that led him out of the poverty-stricken streets of Lagos. Through his non-profit organization, Chess in Slums Africa, and his involvement in The Gift of Chess initiative, he is dedicated to providing chess education and opportunities to underprivileged communities, with a goal to distribute one million chess sets by 2030.
Onakoya’s narrative is that of a man propelled by his love for chess and driven by a desire to effect positive change in the lives of others. His unwavering commitment, resolute determination, and selflessness position him as an exemplar to be emulated, a hero encapsulating the magnanimity and excellence of the Nigerian spirit.
For more information on this remarkable story and Onakoya’s inspiring journey, you can check out the following relevant articles:
– [Link](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/21/a-new-era-of-peace-and-cooperation-between-farmers-and-herders-in-nigeria/)
– [Link](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/19/a-nigerian-chess-champion-is-trying-to-break-the-world-record-for-the-longest-chess-marath/)