In a remarkable display of strategic prowess, Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya recently dazzled the global chess community by triumphing over 10 opponents simultaneously in a high-stakes chess duel. Onakoya’s exceptional performance, where he skillfully played and defeated all players, was not only a testament to his mastery of the game but also served as an inspirational moment for chess enthusiasts worldwide.
The extraordinary feat took place during the second day of the prestigious DLD conference in Germany. Onakoya engaged in a simultaneous chess match against 10 players, showcasing his tactical brilliance over an intense two-hour battle of wits. The entire spectacle was captured on video and shared online, leaving fans and fellow chess enthusiasts in awe of his strategic prowess.
In a post on the platform X, Tunde Onakoya reflected on the event, stating, “During the DLD conference’s second day in Germany, I engaged in a simultaneous chess match against 10 players. After a nearly two-hour battle of wits, I emerged victorious in all games. The chess exhibition raised funds to support the education of 100 children in our academy.” This declaration not only highlighted his accomplishment but also shed light on the philanthropic motive behind the event.
The primary objective of the chess exhibition was to raise funds for Tunde Onakoya’s foundation, “Chess in Slums.” This organization is dedicated to leveraging the game of chess as a powerful tool for social change, with a specific focus on imparting essential skills to underprivileged children, paving the way for their success in various aspects of life. The funds generated from this remarkable chess event were earmarked to support the education of 100 children affiliated with the Chess in Slums academy.
Tunde Onakoya’s achievement was not merely a personal triumph but a strategic move to make a positive impact on society. The Chess in Slums foundation aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing education and opportunities through the game of chess. Onakoya, as the founder of this noble initiative, utilized the exhibition as a platform to garner sufficient funds to sponsor the education of 100 children from his academy, furthering the foundation’s mission.
The chess master faced a diverse array of opponents during the exhibition, each presenting unique challenges. Notably, one of his toughest adversaries was a former Bulgarian minister holding a Ph.D. in Mathematics. Onakoya shared his reflections on social media, emphasizing the universality of chess as a language that transcends backgrounds and connects individuals. This sentiment highlighted the inherent beauty of chess, beyond its strategic complexities.
Onakoya’s journey as a chess master, coach, and founder of Chess in Slums Africa has been marked by a commitment to making a difference in the lives of underprivileged children. His interventions across slums in Lagos state, including Majidun, Makoko, and Oshodi, have provided opportunities for children to unlock their potential through intensive two-week sessions combining chess with foundational literacy skills.
Tunde Onakoya’s triumph over 10 opponents in a simultaneous chess match stands as a fact to his skill and strategic brilliance. Beyond personal achievement, this event served as a catalyst for positive change, raising funds to support the education of underprivileged children through the Chess in Slums foundation. Onakoya’s dedication to using chess as a tool for social impact and his commitment to empowering the youth underscore the transformative power of the game beyond the chessboard.
