Tunde Onakoya, a Nigerian chess player and Guinness World Record holder for the longest marathon chess game, has arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State, to inspire and promote chess among young people.
Onakoya, who is also the founder of the “Chess in Slums in Africa” initiative, is known for his efforts in using chess as a tool for empowerment among children in the slums of Lagos. His visit to Maiduguri marks a significant step in extending his mission to other vulnerable communities.
Upon his arrival on Friday, Onakoya visited internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Muna and Bolori, where he engaged with children who had been trained in chess by members of the 105 Composite Group of the Nigeria Air Force, Maiduguri Mess Club.
During his visit, Onakoya played chess with both male and female children and commended their dedication to the game. He encouraged them to continue practicing, emphasizing that chess could open up new opportunities for them, just as it did for him.
He shared his personal journey, recalling how he started learning chess at the age of ten despite coming from a poor background. His story served as a motivation for the children, showing them that their circumstances do not define their future.
Many of the children, especially girls who have experienced trauma from insurgency, expressed that playing chess has been therapeutic, aiding in their healing and recovery.
Onakoya and his team also paid a courtesy visit to the Commander of the 105 Composite Group of the Nigeria Air Force, Air Commodore C.O. Olayera. The Commander praised Onakoya’s initiative, highlighting the importance of supporting vulnerable children to discover and develop their talents.
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to collaborate with organizations like Onakoya’s as part of their social responsibility, aiming to nurture and mentor children in various fields, ultimately contributing to societal growth and development.
