Celebrating Transformation: Tunde Onakoya’s Impact Through Chess in Slums Africa

Nigerian Chess Master Tunde Onakoya Celebrates Transformative Impact of Chess in Slums Africa

Lagos, Nigeria — Tunde Onakoya, a renowned Nigerian chess master and the visionary founder of Chess in Slums Africa, recently commemorated the anniversary of his remarkable Guinness World Record achievement with a heartwarming update on the lives of three boys he rescued from under the Oshodi bridge in Lagos.

In 2025, Onakoya made headlines worldwide after breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in Times Square, New York, alongside American chess master Shawn Martinez. This extraordinary feat not only showcased his endurance but also highlighted the pressing need for social change, particularly for children in underserved communities.

Reflecting on this milestone, Onakoya shared inspiring updates about Fawaz, Ayomide, and Jamiu—three boys whose lives have been dramatically transformed through his Chess in Slums Africa initiative. “This is a life’s work and a promise to every child I meet,” he stated, emphasizing the profound impact of his program.

• Fawaz, once living on the streets, is now making waves in the fashion industry, working with a prestigious brand and stepping into the creative world.
• Ayomide is pursuing higher education at Miva Open University, showcasing the power of education in shaping futures.
• Jamiu has achieved remarkable success, winning at the United Nations Games in New York and gearing up for an internship with ICN New York City this summer.

Chess in Slums Africa employs chess as a powerful educational tool, engaging children in informal settlements across Lagos while promoting access to education, mentorship, and essential life skills. The initiative has garnered international acclaim for its unique approach to education reform and youth empowerment.

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has recognized Onakoya’s contributions, highlighting his role as a U.S. Government exchange program alumnus. The embassy noted that he is among over 14,000 Nigerian alumni fostering cultural, educational, and professional exchanges between Nigeria and the U.S. His Guinness World Record achievement has been celebrated as part of a broader narrative of Nigerians leveraging global platforms to effect social change.

Onakoya’s recent updates have reignited discussions about the long-term benefits of grassroots educational interventions, particularly in urban informal settlements where structured learning opportunities are scarce. His journey—from teaching chess under bridges in Lagos to breaking global records—serves as a powerful testament to the intersection of sport and education in reshaping the lives of vulnerable children.

As Onakoya continues to champion the cause of education and empowerment through chess, his story remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for many, proving that with determination and support, transformative change is possible.