Onakoya had set a new Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess.
Chess Guinness World Record Holder, Tunde Onakoya, visited the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Adamawa State at the weekend to inspire displaced kids through his Chess in Slums Africa Initiative.
Onakoya said he was in Yola as part of his drive to inspire kids from the slums to prominence.
On April 20, 2024, SaharaReporters reported that Onakoya had set a new Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess.
Onakoya broke the record of Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56-hour, 9-minute in 2018 and aimed at reaching 58 hours target.
Speaking shortly after the games at the Malkohi IDP camp in Yola, the Adamawa State capital, the Onakoya described chess as a transformative tool for self-discovery and empowerment.
Onakoya disclosed that his drive was part of a special programme titled, ‘Chess Tournament and Back to School Campaign for IDP Kids.’
"This is my first time in Yola, and it has been a surreal experience. I'm here because of chess—to offer this gift that helped me find my path in life to children who, like me, are often overlooked. These kids are much more than the poverty or circumstances they were born into; they have the potential for greatness," Onakoya said.
Thirty children in all took part in the tournament held at the camp, showcasing their chess skills and intelligence. Despite the trauma they have endured, the children eagerly participated, demonstrating that, with the right support, they can thrive and overcome adversity.
"The importance of embracing sports as a means of empowering Nigeria’s youth and keeping them away from social vices is our goal.
“If we don’t reach these children first, someone with a more sinister agenda might. Our mission is education and empowerment. Every child is a genius, and talent is universal. We're here to bridge the gap and show these children they have a place in the world," Onakoya said.
Onakoya collaborated with Vivian Ibrahim, the convener of the Chess in IDP Camps initiative, who has so far impacted over 300 children.
Ibrahim said, "We are using chess to give these kids opportunities in life. Some of them have even represented Adamawa State at the National Youth Games, showcasing their talents and intelligence."
She explained that her collaboration with Onakoya aligns with the vision of Chess in Slums Africa.
"We are working together to change the narrative, to show that underprivileged children are not just capable but also disciplined and intelligent. We want to open doors of opportunities for them and display their talents to the world," Ibrahim said.
Twenty children have been sponsored back to school, with more to follow, it was learnt.
"For these children, chess is more than a game; it's a gateway to discipline, intelligence, and confidence," Ibrahim added.