Tunde Onakoya (born October 6, 1994) is a renowned figure in Nigerian chess circles, celebrated not only for his prowess as a player and coach but also for his remarkable achievement in setting the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the longest Marathon Chess game.
Beyond his personal achievements, Onakoya has dedicated himself to making a tangible difference in the lives of underprivileged youth. As the visionary founder of Chess In Slums Africa, he has initiated a transformative program to empower children from marginalized communities in Lagos, such as Ikorodu, Makoko, and Oshodi.
Through this initiative, Onakoya not only imparts the intricacies of chess but also instills essential literacy skills, including reading and writing, thereby offering a pathway to education and personal development for those who need it most.
Facts & Wiki
- Full Name:Â Tunde Onakoya
- Stage Name:Â Tunde OD
- Born:Â October 6, 1994Â
- Age:Â [age]19941006[/age] years old
- Place of Birth:Â Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria
- State Of Origin:Â Lagos State
- Nationality:Â Nigerian
- Education:Â Yaba College of Technology
- Height:Â 1.61 m
- Parents:Â Mr. & Mrs. Onakoya
- Siblings:Â N/A
- Spouse:Â Alma Asinobi
- Girlfriend • Partner: N/A
- Children:Â N/A
- Occupation: Chess Master • Coach
- Net Worth:Â $800,000 (USD)
Early Life
Tunde Onakoya was born and raised in the slum area of Ikorodun, Lagos state. Raised by his mother, who worked tirelessly to provide for their family, Tunde experienced firsthand the resilience and determination required to overcome adversity.
Despite facing financial constraints that threatened to disrupt his education, Tunde’s mother made a selfless sacrifice, offering to work as a cleaner in his school in exchange for his tuition fees. This act of love and determination instilled in Tunde a profound sense of gratitude and a drive to excel.
Amidst the struggles, Tunde discovered his passion for chess, a game he initially encountered in a barber shop in Ikorodun. With dedication, he honed his skills, rising through the ranks to become the 13th-ranked chess player in Nigeria, a testament to his innate talent and hard work.
Despite the challenges, Tunde remained focused on his education, eventually earning a diploma in computer science from Yaba College of Technology. Throughout his academic journey, he represented his school with pride in various competitions, showcasing his intellectual prowess and his unwavering determination.
Tunde’s journey reached new heights when he participated in chess tournaments organized by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), where he demonstrated his exceptional skills on the board. His success in these competitions further solidified his reputation as a formidable chess player, earning him widespread recognition and respect within the chess community and beyond.
Career
Tunde Onakoya’s journey in chess began at a young age when he engaged in matches with elder players in his neighborhood, where his passion for the game ignited. Over the years, his dedication and skill earned him recognition, marked by several notable awards, including victories in prestigious tournaments such as the National Friends Of Chess and The Chevron Chess Open.
With each triumph, Tunde’s reputation as a formidable chess player flourished, solidifying his status as one of Nigeria’s finest. His exceptional talent and strategic prowess propelled him into the spotlight, garnering widespread acclaim across the country.
Beyond his accomplishments, Tunde’s commitment to chess extends to his involvement with The Gift of Chess, a prominent non-profit organization based in New York. As an integral member, he contributes his expertise to enriching the lives of others through the game, embodying the spirit of generosity and community.
Tunde’s impact transcends borders, as evidenced by his feature on CNN Africa Voices. In it, his remarkable journey and contributions to the world of chess were highlighted, inspiring audiences far and wide.
The pinnacle of Tunde’s career came on April 20, 2024, in New York, United States, when he etched his name in history by shattering the Guinness World Chess Marathon record. Enduring over 60 consecutive hours of play, Tunde showcased his unparalleled skill, unwavering determination, and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the world of chess.
Personal Life
Tunde Onakoya’s personal life is intertwined with a deep romantic bond with Alma Asinobi, with whom he is reported to have exchanged vows in a discreet ceremony, signifying their commitment to each other.
Their relationship is characterized by mutual support and understanding. They stand by each other’s sides in their personal endeavors and professional pursuits.
Social Media
- Instagram:@tunde_onakoya
- Facebook: Tunde Onakoya
- LinkedIn: Tunde Onakoya – Chess In Slums Africa
- Twitter: Tunde Onakoya (@Tunde_OD)
Net Worth
Tunde Onakoya reportedly has an estimated net worth of about US$800,000