15 Things to Know About Chess Master Tunde Onakoya

Tunde Onakoya is a Nigerian chess master, coach, and founder of the non-profit organization, Chess in Slums Africa.
He was born on October 6, 1994, in Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria, and learned to play chess in a barber’s shop in the slums where he grew up.
Onakoya’s dedication to chess helped him overcome financial hardships and gain educational opportunities.
He has won several chess tournaments, including the National Friends of Chess and the Chevron Chess Open.
Onakoya holds a diploma in computer science from Yaba College of Technology, where he was a gold medalist in the Nigeria Polytechnic Games and the RCCG Chess Championship.
Chess in Slums Africa, founded by Onakoya in 2018, aims to empower young ones in impoverished communities through chess and access to education.
The organization has trained over 200 children and secured lifelong scholarships for 20 of them.
Onakoya is a board member of The Gift of Chess, a New York City-based non-profit organization.
In 2024, he broke the world chess marathon record by playing for over 60 consecutive hours in New York, United States.
Onakoya’s record-breaking attempt was aimed at raising $1 million for educating children in underprivileged communities.
His efforts have garnered support from Nigerian communities and celebrities, including Afrobeats star Davido.
Onakoya’s work has been recognized with several accolades, such as The Future Awards Africa Prize for Community Action and the Business Insider Award for Social Entrepreneur of the Year.
He is a prominent speaker and has shared the stage with other thought leaders, promoting the transformative power of chess in underprivileged communities.
Onakoya’s work with Chess in Slums Africa has inspired and impacted thousands of children across Nigeria and other African countries.
He has been featured in various media outlets, including The New York Times and BBC, highlighting his achievements and contributions to the chess community and education in Africa.