By John Umeh
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday welcomed Guinness World Record holder and chess advocate, Tunde Onakoya, to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, commending him for his inspirational feat and promising full federal government support for his ongoing efforts to empower young Nigerians through chess and education.
Onakoya, who made global headlines in April 2024 by setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, was received warmly by President Tinubu and top aides at the State House. The visit was both a celebration of his personal achievement and a strategic dialogue on how to scale his initiative—Chess in Slums Africa—with government partnership.
A Meeting of Vision and Inspiration
During the high-level meeting, President Tinubu praised Onakoya for using his talent to promote education, discipline, and opportunity among underprivileged children in Nigeria. The president referred to him as “a shining example of what Nigerian youth can achieve when driven by purpose, passion, and resilience.”
“Tunde, you have done not just yourself proud, but the entire nation,” Tinubu said. “You are proof that greatness does not come from where you are born, but from what you choose to become.”
The President went on to declare the federal government’s readiness to collaborate with Onakoya’s organization in expanding chess-based learning programs to public schools, correctional facilities, and underserved communities across Nigeria.
“Your story aligns with this administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in the areas of education, youth empowerment, and digital thinking. We will give you all the institutional support necessary to amplify your work,” Tinubu added.
Tunde Onakoya: From Lagos Slums to Global Recognition
Tunde Onakoya rose to national prominence through his non-profit initiative, Chess in Slums Africa, which uses the game of chess to teach critical thinking, literacy, and life skills to children in marginalized communities. Born and raised in Lagos, Onakoya often speaks of his humble beginnings and how chess became a vehicle of transformation—not just for himself, but for hundreds of children he has mentored.
In April 2024, Onakoya set a new Guinness World Record by playing chess continuously for 60 hours at Times Square, New York, to raise funds and global awareness for his educational mission. The event captured international media attention and was celebrated by the global chess community, education advocates, and youth empowerment groups worldwide.
His meeting with President Tinubu marks the highest level of recognition yet for his efforts, cementing his status as not only a cultural ambassador but a national change agent.
Federal Support and the Road Ahead
Following the meeting, a joint statement from the Presidency and Chess in Slums Africa revealed that plans are underway to integrate chess programs into the national educational and youth development agenda. Possible areas of collaboration include:
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Government-backed expansion of Chess in Slums into all 36 states.
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Partnerships with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Youth and Sports.
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Training programs for teachers and community leaders.
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Establishment of chess learning centers in rural and inner-city areas.
Onakoya expressed his gratitude to the President for the reception and commitment, saying:
“This is not just a win for chess or for me, but for every child in the slums who dares to dream. With this support, we can reach more lives and show the world the power of Nigerian youth.”
He also reiterated that chess is more than a game—it’s a life-changing tool for education, empowerment, and social mobility. “Our mission is to make sure no child is left behind because of where they were born,” he added.
National and International Reactions
Social media lit up with messages of pride and praise for Onakoya and the President’s support. Celebrities, educators, and activists alike applauded the gesture as a meaningful step in recognizing homegrown talent and investing in sustainable youth development.
International chess bodies, including FIDE and global education nonprofits, also took note of the development, with some expressing readiness to work with Nigerian authorities on broader regional initiatives.
As Tunde Onakoya returns to his work on the ground, he does so now with the full weight of federal backing and a renewed national spotlight. His story continues to evolve—not just as a personal triumph—but as a beacon of what is possible when innovation, empathy, and leadership converge.
