DABIRI-EREWA APPLAUDS TUNDE ONAKOYA ON GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR LONGEST CHESS MARATHON

Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has congratulated Nigerian chess champion Tunde Onakoya on his official recognition by Guinness World Records as the new holder of the longest chess marathon in history.

Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, completed a remarkable 64-hour chess marathon alongside American chess player Shawn Martinez at Times Square, New York City, from April 17 to April 20, 2025. The feat has now been officially confirmed by Guinness World Records as the new global benchmark in chess endurance.

This accomplishment marks a powerful comeback for Onakoya, who previously played for 60 hours in April 2024, briefly holding the record before it was reclaimed by Norwegian duo Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn with a time of 61 hours, 3 minutes, and 34 seconds.

With this latest achievement, Onakoya not only reclaims the title but sets a new standard for excellence, determination, and global recognition earning praise from across the diaspora and beyond.

In her statement, Hon. Dabiri-Erewa lauded Onakoya not just for his brilliance and stamina, but also for his social impact through Chess in Slums Africa, an initiative that teaches chess to children in underserved communities and equips them with critical thinking skills.

“Tunde Onakoya represents the very best of the Nigerian spirit—determined, visionary, and impactful. His latest record is not just a personal win, but a victory for Nigeria and the entire African continent. He has made the nation proud once again,” she said.

NiDCOM reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigerians in the diaspora who are breaking barriers globally and urged young Nigerians to draw inspiration from Onakoya’s journey of excellence, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership.

As the applause echoes from Lagos to London, New York to Nairobi, Tunde Onakoya’s legacy continues to inspire a reminder that greatness has no limits when passion meets purpose