In a candid and heartfelt message, Tunde Onakoya, the world record-holding founder and CEO of Chess in Slums Africa, has responded to the mixed reactions his work and recent engagements have generated. Speaking directly to his followers and critics, Onakoya acknowledged the range of emotions his efforts evoke, from anger and criticism to love and applause, emphasizing that he embraces all feedback as valid.
Onakoya reminded the public of his unique achievement as a world record holder—a distinction recognized internationally, including honors from the city of New York. He clarified that being welcomed by Nigeria’s highest office was neither a crime nor a national honor and dismissed comparisons with awardees from countries accused of war crimes as unfounded.
He further distanced himself from partisan politics, stating his focus remains firmly on the sensitive nature of his work. Should his stance change, he vowed to resign from his leadership role to maintain the organization’s neutrality. Onakoya challenged the notion that Chess in Slums exists solely due to governance failures, explaining that the initiative’s core purpose lies in enhancing cognition and academic performance among disadvantaged youth through chess. He stressed that the program is not charity or an NGO but a transformative tool empowering children who have fallen through educational cracks to develop critical thinking skills and access formal or vocational education.
Continuing, Onakoya highlighted his ongoing collaborations with educational institutions and technology companies worldwide, underscoring the sustained relevance and impact of his work. He clarified that official visits or meetings do not imply endorsements and that he will continue to promote his chess programs widely.
Addressing misconceptions about his character, Onakoya emphasized the difference between reputation and true character, noting his decade-long dedication to this cause and asserting that he has earned the benefit of the doubt. He expressed that while he welcomes both praise and criticism, his focus remains steadfast on building a Chess/STEM institute that will nurture thousands of young minds and provide valuable education for generations to come.
Onakoya also thanked everyone who has supported Chess in Slums Africa over the past seven years, highlighting that the organization has operated without any international grants. He revealed ongoing partnerships with the Lagos state government to rescue children from the streets of Jakande and Isale Eko, with some beneficiaries already achieving milestones such as graduation from vocational training programs like furniture making.
He called on all Nigerians to recognize the urgency of addressing the plight of vulnerable children, emphasizing that political differences should not overshadow the shared responsibility to protect and uplift these lives. Onakoya envisions scaling up collaborations with government bodies to institutionalize their programs and reduce reliance on individual efforts, stressing that public resources should support this cause.
In closing, Tunde Onakoya reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the children and the country he dreams of, acknowledging that his path may challenge public perceptions but affirming that his intentions remain pure. He concluded by saying he lives for the “audience of one,” underscoring that his motivation stems from a deep personal conviction to serve those who need it most.
