Tunde Onakoya Breaks Silence on Tinubu Visit, Says Mission Is About Youth, Not Politics

Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has responded to criticism over his recent visit to President Bola Tinubu, clarifying that his actions are rooted in youth development—not political affiliations.

The Guinness World Record holder, who was recently honored by the City of New York, addressed the backlash in a statement posted to his X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday. He defended his decision to accept recognition from the Nigerian presidency, stating that it was neither a political move nor a betrayal of values.

“To be honored and received by the President for a global achievement is not a crime. It wasn’t even a national award,” he said.

Onakoya emphasized that he has previously declined numerous accolades and drew a clear line between receiving acknowledgment and endorsing any political agenda. He criticized attempts to equate his visit with receiving honors from countries known for human rights violations, calling such comparisons “laughable.”

He added that he has no interest in partisan politics due to the nature of his work, noting, “If that ever changes, I’ll step down as CEO of Chess in Slums Africa.”

Addressing those who questioned the motivation behind his initiative, Onakoya explained that the project’s true value lies not in charity, but in building cognitive skills and restoring dignity to children society has overlooked.

“Our work isn’t driven by failed governance. We use chess as a tool for critical thinking, academic development, and reintegration through education. The real change happens in the minds of these children,” he wrote.

He also clarified that a visit to a political figure is not an endorsement: “I will visit many more people—and I’ll keep selling my chess boards.”

Onakoya called on Nigerians to judge him by the substance of his decade-long commitment, not social media assumptions. “You may not understand my intentions, but reputation is not the same as character. I’ve earned the benefit of the doubt.”

Looking ahead, he reaffirmed his commitment to building a Chess/STEM institute that would educate and inspire thousands of children, regardless of current political tensions.

He also revealed ongoing partnerships with the Lagos State Government aimed at rehabilitating street kids, saying: “Our hurt is valid, but real lives are at stake. This is your tax money—we’re just trying to put it to good use.”

Closing his message, Onakoya declared: “I’m not on the fence. I took a stand ten years ago, and I’ll continue to fight—for children, for education, for the country I believe in. I live for an audience of one, and that is enough.”