Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has pledged his support for Nigerian chess advocate Tunde Onakoya, following a recent meeting in which the two discussed Onakoya’s decade-long efforts to empower underprivileged children through the game of chess.
Onakoya, the founder of the widely celebrated “Chess in Slums” initiative, shared the remarkable impact of his work over the past ten years. Using chess as both an educational and developmental tool, he has helped children in slum communities access local and international educational opportunities—equipping them with critical thinking skills and creating new pathways out of poverty.
During their conversation, Onakoya outlined his ambition to build the world’s largest chess institute, headquartered in Nigeria. Abubakar expressed admiration for the vision, quoting a key message from Onakoya that resonated with him: “Talent is universal, but opportunity is not.”
“I’ve committed to supporting his efforts and playing a role in bringing that vision to life,” Abubakar stated.
As a token of appreciation, Onakoya presented Abubakar with a custom “NeoChess x Tunde Onakoya” chessboard, crafted with traditional Adire textile patterns. Abubakar described the gift as “a true work of art.”
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The former Vice President also confirmed his attendance at Onakoya’s upcoming birthday celebration later this year, which the chess advocate is turning into a platform to bridge opportunity gaps for young Nigerians.
“Tunde is living proof of the incredible potential of our youth, especially when they’re given the right support and environment to thrive,” Abubakar said, describing the meeting as both “enlightening and energising.”
