President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the remarkable accomplishments of Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, following the young changemaker’s recent Guinness World Records triumph for the longest chess marathon.
Onakoya paid a courtesy visit to the President at his official residence in Lagos, where he presented his world record certificate and shared the inspiring story behind his journey.
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“Tunde’s journey, from the streets of Lagos to uplifting underserved children and breaking world records, reflects the resilience and brilliance of Nigeria’s youth,” President Tinubu said while receiving the chess advocate.
Onakoya recently etched his name into the global record books by completing the world’s longest chess marathon, a feat that not only demonstrated mental stamina and discipline but also brought global attention to the transformative work being done through chess in impoverished communities across Nigeria.
The initiative, Chess in Slums Africa, uses the game as a tool to educate, empower, and inspire children from some of the country’s most neglected areas. Since its inception, the project has helped hundreds of children access education, mentorship, and new opportunities, with many learning to play chess for the first time under Onakoya’s guidance.
“Through chess, he opens minds and transforms lives in communities that are too often overlooked,” President Tinubu remarked. “I would love to see how his work can be replicated nationwide, and I am looking forward to seeing him in Abuja to hear how the government can support him.”
The President emphasized that Onakoya’s efforts align seamlessly with his administration’s vision to prioritize education, innovation, and inclusivity.
“Tunde Onakoya’s vision aligns with our administration’s: no child left behind, no talent wasted,” Tinubu stated. “Nigeria is proud of him, and we will walk with him.”
The meeting between the two is expected to lead to further discussions in Abuja on how the federal government can scale and institutionalize the Chess in Slums model across the country, particularly in rural and underserved regions.
For many observers, Tinubu’s public endorsement marks a significant step toward mainstream recognition and support for grassroots educational initiatives driven by young Nigerians. It also signals a potential shift in how alternative forms of education, such as chess, could be integrated into national youth development policies.
As the nation looks to harness the talents of its youth in more innovative and inclusive ways, Tunde Onakoya’s story stands as a beacon of what is possible when passion meets purpose — and when a nation chooses to stand behind its dreamers.
