Nigeria’s Tunde Onakoya has set a new world record for the longest time to continuously play chess.

We have done it,” Onakoya’s X account announced earlier on Saturday. Were pushing to 60 hours, guys. Were not stopping yet. Lets keep going.

Apart from setting the new record, Onakoya is also using the opportunity to raise funds for the “education of African children around the world.”

His new record would be ratified later by the Guinness World Record.

The former record was set in 2018 by Norwegians Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56 hours, and 9 minutes.

READ ALSO: US Embassy, Osinbajo cheer Tunde Onakoyas attempt to set chess world record

Onakoya faced off against Shawn Martinez of the United States for the challenge. Both players hold the title of national masters.

If ratified, Onakoya and the New York chess legend will both be recognised for setting a new world record.

Onakoya embarked on this challenge to raise $1 million to support underprivileged children worldwide through his foundation, Chess in Slums Africa.

He started Chess in Slums in September 2018 in Ikorodu.

READ ALSO: Tunde Onakoya: Raising Kings and Queens Through Chess in Slum

He said his foundation wanted to give children access to education so they can get to understand and know their own potential, because thats the greatest gift you can ever give to anyone.

“Weve been able to raise 100,000 dollars so far, he said.

Chess in Slums Africa has already transformed countless lives in disadvantaged communities within Nigeria, offering educational opportunities for young people in Oshodi, Makoko, and other underserved areas.

Funds raised through this record-breaking marathon will now fuel a global expansion of this impactful program.

As of Saturday morning, Onakoya has garnered nearly $100,000 in donations.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Why are you flagging this comment?

I disagree with this user

Targeted harassment - posted harassing comments or discussions targeting me, or encouraged others to do so

Spam - posted spam comments or discussions

Inappropriate profile - profile contains inappropriate images or text

Threatening content - posted directly threatening content

Private information - posted someone else''s personally identifiable information

Before flagging, please keep in mind that Disqus does not moderate communities. Your username will be shown to the moderator, so you should only flag this comment for one of the reasons listed above.

We will review and take appropriate action.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox every day of the week. Stay informed with the Guardians leading coverage of Nigerian and world news, business, technology and sports.

Follow Us