History was made at Aso Rock as President Bola Tinubu received Tunde Onakoya, Nigeria’s chess sensation and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, for an inspiring meeting. The occasion was marked by Onakoya’s presentation of his Guinness World Record certificate for the longest chess marathon—an extraordinary feat achieved on the world stage in New York, where he played chess for over 58 hours, captivating global attention and winning hearts for Nigeria.
Dressed in traditional attire and beaming with pride, Tunde Onakoya stood shoulder-to-shoulder with President Tinubu, presenting the coveted certificate and a symbolic chess set—representing more than a game, but a beacon of hope for countless children from underserved communities across Nigeria. The backdrop of Nigerian and presidential flags underscored the significance of the moment, a powerful reminder that Nigeria’s youth are breaking boundaries and rewriting narratives.
President Tinubu, visibly moved, praised Tunde’s resilience and transformative vision, saying,
“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. Through chess, he opens minds and transforms lives in communities that are too often overlooked. 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. Tunde Onakoya’s vision aligns with our administration’s: no child left behind, no talent wasted. Nigeria is proud of him, and we will walk with him.”
The President’s remarks signal a new era of government engagement with grassroots talent development, as he promised to explore ways the Chess in Slums model could be scaled across the country. Onakoya’s initiative has already trained and empowered thousands of children—using the game of chess to unlock potential, promote critical thinking, and deliver hope where it’s needed most.
Onakoya’s achievement in New York not only shattered a world record but also showcased the boundless possibilities within Nigeria’s youth. His story is now inspiring government leaders, private sector partners, and a new generation of young Nigerians—proving that with vision, grit, and a little help, no child and no dream should ever be left behind.
From Lagos to the world, Tunde Onakoya is rewriting the rules—and the whole nation is cheering.
