Triumphant Tunde Onakoya’s Tinubu Visit Ignites Online Debate

Tunde Onakoya, the celebrated Nigerian chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, is once again at the center of national attention. His recent visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja has set off a wave of reactions across Nigeria, with many people sharing their thoughts online. This meeting comes just weeks after Onakoya also met with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, making him a prominent figure not only in sports but also in the country’s public and political life.

Tunde Onakoya’s rise to fame has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2024, he made international headlines by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, playing chess for an incredible 60 hours straight in Times Square, New York. This achievement brought him global recognition and made him a source of pride for Nigerians everywhere. Onakoya’s journey from humble beginnings in Lagos to the world stage has inspired many young people, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.

President Tinubu warmly received Onakoya during their meeting, praising him for his achievements and for representing the best of Nigerian youth. The president described Onakoya as a symbol of hope, resilience, and talent, saying;

“You have shown the world the true spirit of Nigeria’s youth—resilient, talented, and unstoppable.”

The meeting was widely covered by the media, with photos and videos of Onakoya and the president shaking hands quickly spreading across social media platforms.

However, the reactions to Onakoya’s meetings with top political leaders have not been entirely positive. While many Nigerians are proud of his achievements and global recognition, others are worried about the possible implications of his growing political connections. Social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), has become a battleground of opinions, with some users expressing concern that Onakoya’s association with politicians could affect his independence and the future of his Chess in Slums Africa project.

Some Nigerians are advising Tunde Onakoya to avoid federal support and instead rely on private funding for his work. They fear that political affiliations, especially with the 2027 elections approaching, could distract him from his mission or compromise the integrity of his initiatives.

One X user captured this sentiment, writing:

“Tunde Onakoya is a national treasure. But he should be careful not to let politics distract him from his good work.”

This quote reflects the concerns of many who admire Onakoya’s success but want him to remain focused on his original vision—using chess to empower children in Nigerian slums and give them new opportunities.

Despite the mixed reactions, there is no doubt that Tunde Onakoya’s story continues to inspire millions. His Chess in Slums Africa initiative has changed the lives of many young people, teaching them not just how to play chess, but also important life skills such as critical thinking, discipline, and perseverance. Through his work, Onakoya has shown that talent and determination can overcome even the toughest challenges.

Many supporters have used this moment to remind others of the positive impact Onakoya has had on Nigerian society. They highlight how his achievements have brought international attention to Nigeria’s potential and creativity. For many, Onakoya represents the hope that young Nigerians can rise above their circumstances and achieve greatness, no matter where they start in life.

At the same time, the debate about his political meetings has sparked a larger conversation about the relationship between sports, activism, and politics in Nigeria. Some believe that meeting with political leaders is a natural step for anyone who wants to expand their impact and secure support for important causes. Others argue that staying independent from politics is the best way to protect the integrity of social projects and avoid unwanted influence.

For Tunde Onakoya, the challenge now is to balance his growing public profile with his commitment to the children and communities he serves. Many Nigerians are watching closely to see how he navigates this new chapter in his career. Some have suggested that he use his platform to advocate for better support for education and youth development, while others hope he will continue to focus on grassroots efforts and direct community engagement.

There is also discussion about the broader impact of Onakoya’s achievements on Nigeria’s image abroad. His Guinness World Record and global recognition have shown the world a different side of Nigeria—one of talent, hard work, and positive change. For a country often in the news for political or economic challenges, Onakoya’s story is a welcome reminder of what is possible when young people are given a chance to shine.

In the midst of all the debate, one thing is clear: Tunde Onakoya’s journey is far from over. Whether he chooses to work with government leaders or remain independent, his influence is undeniable. He has already inspired a new generation of Nigerian youth to dream big and believe in themselves. As the 2027 elections approach and political tensions rise, many hope that Onakoya will continue to use his voice and platform for good, staying true to the values that made him a national hero in the first place.

Supporters and critics alike agree that Tunde Onakoya’s work with Chess in Slums Africa has made a real difference in the lives of many children. His story is a powerful example of how passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements. As the conversation continues online and in communities across Nigeria, Onakoya’s next steps will be watched with great interest.

For now, Tunde Onakoya remains a symbol of hope, resilience, and the limitless potential of Nigerian youth. His recent meetings with top political leaders may have sparked debate, but they have also reminded the country of the importance of supporting and celebrating those who strive to make a difference. Whether through chess, education, or advocacy, Onakoya’s legacy is already secure—and his journey is still unfolding

Tunde Onakoya’s story continues to inspire, showing that with passion and focus, Nigerian youth can achieve greatness and make a real difference.

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