2023 Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, said, he had “a great time” meeting with Tunde Onakoya, Nigerian Chess player and coach.
The former Vice President disclosed, Onakoya told him about the “inspiring journey” he has been on for the past one decade, “using chess as a powerful tool to transform the lives of children in slum communities”.
Onakoya went ahead to discuss with Atiku “about his dream to build the biggest chess institute—not just in Nigeria, but in the world.”
Atitku (X/@atiku) wrote: “I had a great time meeting with Tunde Onakoya, @Tunde_OD. He shared with me the inspiring journey he’s been on for the past ten years, using chess as a powerful tool to transform the lives of children in slum communities. Through his work, he’s helped many of them out of the slums and into local and international schools, using the game not just to teach, but to build critical thinking and open doors.
“Tunde also spoke passionately about his dream to build the biggest chess institute—not just in Nigeria, but in the world. One thing he said that really stuck with me was this: “Talent is universal, but opportunity is not.” I’ve committed to supporting his efforts and playing a role in bringing that vision to life.”
Waziri Adamawa expressed gratitude to Onakoya “for the beautiful “NeoChess x Tunde Onakoya” custom chessboard he gifted me”, saying, the Chess coach invited him to his upcoming birthday celebration later this year.
Atiku continued: “A big thank you to Tunde for the beautiful “NeoChess x Tunde Onakoya” custom chessboard he gifted me, proudly crafted with traditional Adire patterns; it’s a true work of art.
“He’s also invited me to his upcoming birthday celebration later this year, which he’s turning into a platform to bridge opportunity gaps and uplift more of our young people.
“It was an enlightening and energizing conversation. Tunde is living proof of the incredible potential of our youth, especially when they’re given the right support and environment to thrive.”
In April, 2024, Tunde Onakoya broke the record for the longest chess marathon in New York City, United States (US).
“The previous world record, recognised by Guinness World records, was 56 hours, nine minutes, and 37 seconds, which was set by Norwegian duo Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018.”
Read: Tunde Onakoya breaks chess marathon record
Read: Tunde Onakoya: ‘Congratulations on sounding the gong of Nigeria’s resilience’ – President Tinubu
Photo: X/@atiku
