Renowned Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has addressed the wave of criticism that followed his recent visit to President Bola Tinubu, insisting that the engagement was purely non-political and rooted in his commitment to youth development.
Onakoya, who recently made global headlines by breaking a Guinness World Record and was honoured by the City of New York, said his visit to Nigeria’s highest office should not be interpreted as political endorsement or affiliation.
In a strongly-worded statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, Onakoya defended his decision, stating that his work and advocacy for underprivileged children go beyond partisan boundaries.
“To be honoured and received by the President for a world record achievement is not a crime,” he wrote. “It wasn’t a national honour. I’ve turned down several awards in the past. Comparing my visit to state recognition from governments accused of war crimes is laughable.”
Onakoya stressed that his decade-long mission remains firmly focused on empowering disadvantaged children through chess, cognitive development, and access to education. He said Chess in Slums Africa is not a charity organisation, but a movement using chess as a tool for transformation.
“The idea that our work only exists because of bad governance is inaccurate,” he said. “We are restoring dignity to children who have been failed by the system. Our work is about helping them think, dream again, and access formal or vocational education.”
The social entrepreneur added that while social media may shape public perception, it does not define his character or the integrity of his work. “Reputation is not character. You only see what I allow on social media. But I’ve stayed committed to this cause for ten years. That track record should count for something.”
Responding to critics who questioned the optics of his meeting with President Tinubu, Onakoya clarified that such interactions do not equate to political alignment.
“A visit is not an endorsement. I’ll meet more people if it helps advance the cause. I live for the audience of one—and that is enough.”
He also revealed that Chess in Slums Africa has not received any international grants over the past seven years, relying instead on community partnerships and local support. He cited an ongoing collaboration with the Lagos State Government aimed at rehabilitating street children in communities like Jakande and Isale Eko, noting that some beneficiaries have gone on to acquire vocational skills.
“One of them just graduated from furniture school and is rebuilding his life,” he said. “That’s real impact. Whether or not we agree on politics, there are lives at stake. We all have a role to play.”
Onakoya concluded by reaffirming his commitment to building a legacy through the establishment of a Chess and STEM institute that will serve thousands of children across Nigeria.
“In another decade, that institute will stand. It will educate and equip children for a better future. All the current noise will be irrelevant in the face of the transformation we are building.”
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