Tunde Onakoya established the first chess innovation cluster in Lagos to develop fresh talent in Nigeria.
Onakoya, the founder of Chess In Slums, shared footage from the unveiling ceremony on Instagram.
The chess master was enthusiastic about the hub’s potential, claiming that it will empower poor children through innovative instruction.
According to Onakoya, the hub would provide young talent with free access to technology-related programs (code, robotics, AI/machine learning), design, advanced chess training, and a book reading group.
“I have always believed that every child, no matter their background, deserves the opportunity to develop their full potential. This hub will be a sanctuary where dreams are nurtured and where we’ll inspire children to have faith in their own ideas,” he wrote.
“As promised, the hub will be free and accessible to children in Makoko, as well as homeless children in Yaba, Ebutte Metta, and Surulere axis. We will focus on creating programs that teach Coding, Robotics, AI/Machine Learning, design, advanced chess training and a book reading club.
“This is where we reimagine education for children who may have fallen through the cracks of society and help them unleash the power of their minds in creative ways.”
In April, Onakoya made headlines after trying the world record for the longest chess marathon in Times Square, New York City.
However, the Guinness World Record (GWR) kept mute on the Nigerian’s achievement, naming Odin Blikra Vea and Askild Bryn from Norway as the record holders for the longest chess marathon.
Onakoya earlier stated that he grew up in the slums and that playing chess helped him realize his potential.
