LAGOS – Celebrated chess player and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has clarified that his recent visit to President Bola Tinubu should not be misconstrued as a political endorsement. The meeting, which drew backlash on social media, followed Onakoya’s historic feat of setting a second Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon—64 hours in New York’s Times Square.
In a statement shared on his official X handle on Wednesday, Onakoya said the meeting was neither a crime nor a political move, adding that he remains committed to his mission of empowering children in underserved communities through chess and education.
“To be honoured and received by the President and the highest office in my own country for this reason is not a crime,” Onakoya wrote. “It is not even a national honour, by the way.”
Responding to critics who viewed the visit as contradicting his social advocacy, Onakoya said he has “no interest in partisan politics” and would resign from his role as CEO of Chess in Slums Africa should that ever change. “I live for the audience of one, and that is enough,” he added.
He emphasized that his visit was an opportunity to share his vision of building the world’s largest Chess and STEM institute, stressing, “A visit is not an endorsement. I will visit many more people and will continue to sell my chessboards.”
Addressing further criticism that his initiative only thrives because of government failure, Onakoya pushed back, noting that his organisation has partnered with the Lagos State government for over a year, helping children in communities such as Jakande and Isale Eko. “The rhetoric that Chess in Slums only exists because of bad governance is not accurate,” he said.
He also spoke on public misconceptions about his motives and integrity: “Reputation is not character… It’s been 10 long years of staying with this one thing, so I know for a fact that I have earned the benefit of the doubt.”
The backlash comes amid a wave of visits to the president by prominent figures, including political leaders such as former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose and PDP’s Segun Sowunmi. Still, Onakoya insists his work transcends politics and charity, focusing instead on cognitive development and access to education.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu praised Onakoya’s work, stating, “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.”
At the meeting, Onakoya presented Tinubu with a gold-plated Adire chessboard and his Guinness World Record certificate. He later described the moment as “humbling,” expressing gratitude for the reception and invitation to further discussions in Abuja.
Amid the controversy, popular skit maker Mr. Macaroni expressed support for Onakoya, urging Nigerians to respect differing approaches to nation-building—even as he disclosed his personal choice to decline visits to political figures.
