In his quest to encourage more school enrollment and give children assured future, Guinness World Record (GWR) holder and founder of the Chess in Slums Africa Initiative, Tunde Onakoya, has inaugurated Back-to-School campaign for children of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Adamawa State.
Onakoya, who played a game of chess with the children at Malhohi IDP camp at the weekend, described chess as a transformative tool for self-discovery and empowering of young ones affected by insurgency.
His visit to Adamawa State was part of a special programme tagged ‘Chess Tournament and Back to School Campaign for IDP Kids’.
Speaking about his mission, Onakoya said: “This is my first time in Yola, and it has been a surreal experience. I’m here because of Chess—to offer this gift that helped me find my path in life to children who, like me, are often overlooked.
“These kids are much more than the poverty or circumstances they were born into; they have the potential for greatness.”
Thirty children took part in the tournament held at the IDP camp, showing their chess skills and intelligence to the amazement of the renowned chess player and world record holder.
Despite the trauma they have endured, the children eagerly participated, demonstrating that, with the right support, they could thrive and overcome adversity.
Onakoya emphasised the importance of embracing sports as a means of empowering Nigeria’s youth and keeping them away from social vices.
“If we don’t reach these children first, someone with a more sinister agenda might.
“Our mission is education and empowerment. Every child is a genius, and talent is universal.
“We’re here to bridge the gap and show these children they have a place in the world,” he stated.
Vivian Ibrahim, the convener of the Chess in IDP Camps initiative, has already impacted over 300 children, echoed Onakoya’s sentiment.
“We are using chess to give these kids opportunities in life. Some of them have even represented Adamawa State at the National Youth Games, showcasing their talents and intelligence,” she said.
Ibrahim explained that her collaboration with Onakoya aligned with the vision of Chess in Slums Africa. “We are working together to change the narrative, to show that underprivileged children are not just capable but also disciplined and intelligent. We want to open doors of opportunity for them and display their talents to the world.”
LEADERSHIP reports that the results are already showing as Ibrahim’s initiative has sponsored 20 children back to school, and it was working to enroll even more. “For these children, chess is more than a game; it’s a gateway to discipline, intelligence, and confidence,” she added.
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