Tunde Onakoya unveils chess innovation hub in Lagos (Photos)

By Taiwo Okanlawon

Nigerian Guinness World Records holder for the longest marathon chess game, Tunde Onakoya has launched the first chess innovation hub in Lagos to nurture young talent in Nigeria.

The chess master announced the news on his social media platforms, sharing footage from the unveiling ceremony.

Onakoya, is the founder and convener of “Chess in Slums in Africa” that is providing interventions for children in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital.

The chess master expressed excitement about the hub’s potential, adding that it will empower underprivileged children through innovative education.

Onakoya said the hub would provide young talent free access to tech-related programmes (coding, robotics, AI/machine learning), design, advanced chess training, and a book reading club.

“I have always believed that every child, no matter their background, deserves the opportunity to develop their full potential. This hub will be a sanctuary where dreams are nurtured and where we’ll inspire children to have faith in their own ideas,” he wrote.

“As promised, the hub will be free and accessible to children in Makoko, as well as homeless children in Yaba, Ebutte Metta, and Surulere axis. We will focus on creating programs that teach Coding, Robotics, AI/Machine Learning, design, advanced chess training and a book reading club.

“This is where we reimagine education for children who may have fallen through the cracks of society and help them unleash the power of their minds in creative ways.”

In April, Onakoya became a media sensation after attempting the world record for the longest chess marathon at Times Square in New York City.

However, the Guinness World Record (GWR) remained silent on the Nigerian’s feat and certified Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn from Norway as the record holders of the longest chess marathon.

Onakoya previously disclosed that he grew up in the slums and that playing chess allowed him to discover his potential.