Chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has defended his recent visit to President Bola Tinubu in Lagos, stating firmly that it was “not political” and should not be seen as an endorsement of the administration.
Onakoya, who recently set a second Guinness World Record by playing chess non-stop for 64 hours in Times Square, faced criticism after photos of his meeting with President Tinubu surfaced online. Many Nigerians, especially on social media, questioned the visit’s optics, arguing it conflicted with his advocacy for slum children during a time of economic hardship.
In a detailed statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Onakoya clarified his motives, stating, “To be honoured and received by the president and the highest office in my own country for this reason is not a crime. It is not even a national honour, by the way.”
The 29-year-old stressed that he has no political ambitions and remains focused on improving the lives of underprivileged children.
“I have no interest in partisan politics because of the sensitivity of the work that I do. If that ever changes, I would resign as CEO of Chess in Slums Africa,” he wrote. “I live for the audience of one, and that is enough.”
He reiterated that the visit allowed him to share his dream of building the world’s largest chess and STEM institute, not to align himself politically.
“A visit is not an endorsement. I will visit many more people and will continue to sell my chessboards,” he added.
Onakoya also challenged the belief that his initiative only thrives due to governmental failure. He revealed that Chess in Slums has partnered with the Lagos State government for over a year, supporting children in communities such as Jakande and Isale Eko.
“One of them recently graduated from furniture school and is now thriving,” he shared.
He also addressed public misconceptions about his character.
“You may not understand my intentions or character because the only thing you know about me is what I let on social media. “ But reputation is not character,” he said. “It’s been 10 long years of staying with this one thing—I’ve earned the benefit of the doubt.”
Despite backlash, prominent activist and skit maker Mr. Macaroni voiced support for Onakoya, encouraging Nigerians to respect different approaches to nation-building, even if they don’t align politically. Macaroni, however, noted that he has personally declined invitations to meet with political figures.
This is not Onakoya’s first interaction with a government official. In 2024, he met with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who appointed him Sports Ambassador after his record-breaking marathon.
During the meeting with Tinubu, Onakoya presented a gold-plated Adire chessboard and his Guinness World Record certificate.
The president praised his efforts, saying, “Through chess, he opens minds and transforms lives in communities that are too often overlooked. His vision aligns with our administration’s: no child left behind, no talent wasted.”
Onakoya later described the encounter as humbling, expressing gratitude for the invitation and opportunity to share his vision in Abuja.
