Chess Champion Tunde Onakoya takes game to vulnerable in Maiduguri

Nigerian chess player and coach Tunde Onakoya, who holds the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess game, has arrived in Maiduguri to promote the game among the youth.

Onakoya, the founder and convener of “Chess in Slums in Africa,” an initiative providing support to children in Lagos slums, touched down in Maiduguri on Friday. His visit included a stop at the Muna and Bolori camps for internally displaced persons, where children have been receiving chess training from members of the 105 Composite Group of the Nigeria Air Force, Maiduguri, Mess Club.

During his visit, Onakoya engaged in interactive sessions and played chess games with both male and female children in the camps. He praised their dedication and enthusiasm for the game.

Onakoya, speaking to the children, said, “Keep up the great work. Chess isn’t just a game; it’s a tool that can sharpen your mind and open doors for you, just like it did for me.”

He shared his own story, recalling how he came from a poor background and began learning chess at the age of 10. His message resonated strongly with many of the children, especially the girls who have been using the game as a means of healing from the trauma of insurgency.

Onakoya and his team also paid a courtesy visit to Air Commodore C.O. Olayera, Commander of the 105 Composite Group of the Nigeria Air Force in Maiduguri.

The commander commended the initiative, emphasizing its importance in helping vulnerable children explore their talents.”We are committed to collaborating with stakeholders to support vulnerable children in pursuing education and nurturing their potential. This partnership will also serve as a platform for mentoring these children, helping them excel in various fields and contribute to societal growth.”

Writing by Julian Osamoto