Tunde Onakoya Biography: Inspiring Chess Maverick’s Record-Breaking

Tunde Onakoya

From the humblest of beginnings to becoming a trailblazer for social change, Tunde Onakoya has redefined what using chess can mean in effecting change. Born on 6 October 1994 in Ikorodu, Nigeria, Tunde’s story is one of resilience, passion, and an irrepressible drive to create opportunities where hitherto there were none.

Much like Tjay, whose inspiring journey showcases the power of determination and seizing opportunities read more about Tjay’s early life and achievements here, Tunde’s path highlights the profound impact of using one’s talents to uplift others. 

From a young boy improving his chess skills in the corner of a barber’s shop, Tunde has risen to become nationally and internationally known, not only as one of Nigeria’s best chess players but more importantly as the founder of Chess in Slums Africa-an innovative initiative that uses the game of chess to change lives and prove that an ordinary board and its pieces could be a potent tool for education, empowerment, and hope.

In this biography, we delve into the inspiring life of Tunde Onakoya—from his early days in Lagos to his record-breaking achievements and his tireless efforts to uplift underprivileged communities. Join us on a journey through the life of a man who reminds us of all that no matter where we start, greatness is always within reach.

Unveiling Tunde Onakoya’s Early Life

Let’s go back to October 6, 1994, when in the busy metropolis of Ikorodu, Nigeria, Tunde Onakoya first made an appearance into the world. And little did anyone know; this young lad was destined for a life meant to bring hope to hundreds of kids in the slums of Lagos.

Growing up in the heart of Ikorodu, Tunde had not been initiated into chess at any posh club or prestigious academy, per se. No, his voyage began in a modest barber’s shop. The buzz of clippers and chatter from local folk were some of the sounds he grew up with, playing chess. And that, my friends, is a great testament to the fact that greatness knows no boundary and can sprout from the most unlikely place.

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Tunde Onakoya’s Educational Background

With no information on his secondary where his mum offered to work as a cleaner in exchange for his education, Tunde is a graduate of computer science from Yaba college of Technology

The Chess Odyssey: From Slum Streets to World Records

Imagine a boy, abreast with passion and determinations, rising through the ranks in Nigeria’s chess despite financial challenges. His indomitable spirit made Tunde win different tournaments and was acclaimed as the 13th best chess player in the country.

But the story of Tunde is not about mastering the game, it is about using those skills for a higher purpose. In the year 2016, he carved his name in history by setting the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess game, by which he showed off nothing but endurance and his commitment to pushing the boundaries.

Empowering Minds: Chess in Slums Africa

Fast forward to September 2018; this was the moment when Chess in Slums Africa was born. This was a sure case of Tunde’s dream of using chess as a tool of empowerment. This initiative, now purely dependent on volunteers, seeks to empower young souls from poor communities with a clear route to a decent life.

Under Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde and his team have been able to touch the lives of more than 200 children. They did not teach the kids chess but taught them something more: instilling confidence, building up a generation that thinks, and cultivating dreams that would somehow go against the tide. Ferdinand is an example: a 10-year-old with cerebral palsy who won a chess competition and stole people’s hearts.

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Guinness World Record and Beyond

On April 20, 2024, Tunde Onakoya again hit the headlines-this time in New York City. He was determined to do a record-shattering, jaw-dropping, attention-grabbing 60 hours of playing chess non-stop. His quest was not only about becoming the world record holder for longest marathon playing chess but also to achieve his goal of raising $1 million for the education of African children.

The support came from unexpected quarters: the Nigerian community in New York, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and even Afrobeats stars like Davido and Adekunle Gold as Tunde struggled with fatigue. This showed how unity and a common belief in a better future for African youth can inspire.

Tunde Onakoya
Tunde Onakoya 58 hours of non stop chess record

Awards

  • Gold Medalist at Nigerian Polytechnic Games
  • Gold Medalist at the RCCG Chess Championship
  • National Friends of chess
  • Chevron Chess Open
Tunde Onakoya with Shawn (@pushingpawnsnyc)
Tunde Onakoya with Shawn (@pushingpawnsnyc) after the April 2024 Guinness Word Record

Let us take a leaf from Tunde Onakoya’s life and make sure that instead of just being amazed, we contribute to changing things around us. Let it be through chess, education, or even lending a helping hand-let a wave of change occur with us.

For another inspiring story of resilience and impact, read about journalist Rufai Oseni and his remarkable journey. His life serves as a testament to the power of determination in creating a meaningful legacy.

So let us join hands and take that torch of hope and empowerment forward, reminding ourselves that anything is possible with passion, persistence, and a pinch of magic.

Are you ready to make your move?

Let’s champion change, one pawn at a time. 🌟

Discover more incredible life stories like Tunde Onakoya’s in our captivating Public Figures Biography series. 📚

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