Sports

Tunde Onakoya Breaks Global Chess Record

Published

1 month ago

April 20, 2025

By Adenike Lawal

Nigerian chess maestro and education advocate, Tunde Onakoya, has set a new global milestone by breaking the world record for the longest chess marathon, playing continuously for over 61 hours in New York City’s iconic Times Square.

Onakoya, 30, alongside his playing partner, US chess master Shawn Martinez, surpassed the previous record of 56 hours and 9 minutes set by Norwegian duo Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2024.

He is now aiming for 70 hours of uninterrupted gameplay to crown the historic feat.

Announcing the record-breaking moment on social media, Onakoya declared: “For all the dreamers! We’ve officially BROKEN THE RECORD with my brother.” But beyond the record, his message was clear—it is a campaign for hope and education.

The chess marathon is part of a bold fundraising campaign to build the largest free preschool in Africa for homeless children, under the banner of his nonprofit, Chess in Slums Africa.

The initiative has drawn global support, including backing from Afrobeats icon Davido and Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima.

Despite battling fatigue, Onakoya remained focused. “The hardest part isn’t the lack of sleep—it’s carrying the weight of so many dreams. But that’s also the fuel,” he shared.

Onakoya’s rise from a Lagos barbershop where he first learned chess, to global acclaim, has inspired millions.

His mission remains the same—turning one chessboard into a million dreams.

While official confirmation from Guinness World Records is awaited, the world is already celebrating a new symbol of African excellence and purpose-driven resilience.

News

Napoli Blocks Turkish Move for Osimhen

Published

5 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

Napoli has rejected a move by Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce to land Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, signaling the club’s firm stance on the forward’s future.

Though figures behind the offer remain under wraps, sources close to the deal suggest the Italian side is not ready to part with their star man unless a compelling package is presented.

Osimhen has drawn attention from several European heavyweights this transfer window, with his name topping many wish lists.

Napoli’s refusal to engage with the Turkish bid sends a strong message – the Nigerian forward is not going anywhere cheaply.

The club is believed to be holding out for a much larger deal or eyeing a strategic replacement before entertaining any sale talks.

As speculation swirls, all eyes remain on Osimhen and what could become one of the summer’s most-watched transfer sagas.

Sports

Chelle Shakes Up Eagles Squad, Drops Osimhen, Lookmam

Published

5 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Adenike Lawal

In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has left out top strikers Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup friendlies against Ghana and Russia.

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the surprise exclusions on Wednesday, with no official reason given for the absence of the high-flying forwards despite their strong performances at club level.

Chelle’s selection signals a major shift in attacking strategy as the team prepares for two high-profile clashes.

However, there is good news for some as goalkeeper Maduka Okoye returns to the lineup, joined by Frank Onyeka, Kelechi Iheanacho, and veteran skipper Ahmed Musa, who is expected to anchor the squad with his experience.

The omissions have sparked intense debate, with many questioning the timing and tactical reasoning behind sidelining two of Nigeria’s most potent attacking threats.

News

Falcons Set for Showdown with Cameroon

Published

9 hours ago

May 21, 2025

Samson Adeyanju

By Njoku Chijioke

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are primed for two high-profile friendly clashes against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon as part of their buildup to the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations.

Coach Justine Madugu has named a strong 23-player squad featuring top stars like Rasheedat Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, Toni Payne, and Rinsola Babajide.

The matches will hold on May 31 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne and on June 3 at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.

With Nigeria drawn in a challenging AFCON Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana, the double-header against Cameroon offers a vital chance for tactical fine-tuning and team chemistry.

Players are expected to report to camp at the Am2pm Hotel in Ijebu-Ode on May 26 ahead of the fixtures.