How young Nigerians embrace purpose through chess aftershock

In a world captivated by fleeting trends and materialistic pursuits, it’s refreshing to witness the younger generation rediscovering purpose and opportunity through the timeless game of chess.

The story of Tunde Onakoya, a 29-year-old Nigerian chess prodigy, serves as a beacon of inspiration for young Nigerians as they navigate the complexities of life in a country brimming with potential yet grappling with challenges.

Onakoya’s record-breaking feat in a 60-hour marathon chess game against American champion Shawn Martinez in New York’s iconic Times Square not only showcased his exceptional skills but also highlighted his unwavering commitment to making a difference.

Through his Chess in Slums project, Onakoya aims to empower children across Africa, providing them with access to the game of chess as a means of fostering critical thinking, strategic planning, and personal growth.

The support and recognition he received from both the local and international community underscore the significance of initiatives that seek to uplift and empower the youth.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s words of praise and encouragement resonate deeply, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for young people to explore their talents and pursue their passions.

While Onakoya’s achievement has undoubtedly reignited interest in chess among young Nigerians, especially in low-income areas such as Lagos, where resources are scarce and opportunities often elusive, there remains a glaring lack of state support for grassroots initiatives.

In neighborhoods like Ojodu Berger, where Mohammed Azeez dedicates his time and energy to teaching chess to eager youngsters in makeshift settings, the need for sustainable funding and infrastructural support is palpable.

Despite these challenges, the impact of chess as a tool for empowerment and social mobility cannot be overstated. Beyond its inherent intellectual benefits, chess instills values such as discipline, resilience, and teamwork, qualities that are invaluable in shaping the character and mindset of young individuals.

The game transcends social and economic barriers, offering a level playing field where talent and dedication reign supreme.

Azeez’s nonprofit Milverton Chess Academy is not just a place for extracurricular lessons, it is a hub of community and learning.

With over a dozen children attending classes in the evenings and weekends, all free of charge thanks to generous donations from parents, the academy serves as a beacon of opportunity and growth for the youth in the area.

Azeez himself is a testament to the transformative power of chess, having started playing over two decades ago and honing his skills at a university chess club.

Despite facing personal tragedy with the loss of his eldest brother, Azeez’s passion for the game never wavered.

He believes in the importance of sharing knowledge and empowering others, which led him to establish the academy in 2004.

Through chess, Azeez not only teaches strategy and critical thinking but also imparts valuable life lessons to his students.

His ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone who walks through the doors of the academy leaves with a deeper understanding of the game and a newfound sense of possibility.

Despite the challenges he faces, Azeez continues to passionately teach children in his community how to play chess, using a small space in his compound as a makeshift classroom. He has already helped numerous children become skilled chess players, but the demand for his teaching has grown beyond his limited resources.

Despite not being able to participate in national tournaments or benefit financially from his skills, Azeez is motivated by the belief that chess can bring positive benefits to children and adults alike, teaching logic, philosophy, psychology, and mathematics.

Inspired by the success of fellow Nigerian chess player Tunde Onakoya in New York, Azeez remains determined to overcome the obstacles and continue sharing his love for the game with the next generation.

Parents in the community are now entrusting their children to Azeez, convinced by the potential of chess to become an elite game in the future and eager for their children to benefit from his instruction.

With unwavering dedication and faith in the power of chess, Azeez perseveres in his mission to empower and educate through the game he loves.

Many parents who approach Azeez do so because they believe that chess is a game reserved for wealthy individuals and see it as a potential pathway to financial security for their families.

However, the harsh reality often forces them to reassess their expectations. One such case is that of Dotun, a talented student at Azeez’s academy who exhibited exceptional skills in chess despite coming from a background of severe poverty.

Despite his impressive abilities and achievements in competitions, his family’s limited financial resources meant that they could not even afford to purchase a chessboard for him.

The stark contrast between Dotun’s talent and his living conditions serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many aspiring chess players from underprivileged backgrounds.

While some students, like Nonso, who once trained at the academy, have found ways to give back and support the institution by providing chess boards and even contributing part of their winnings from competitions.

The stories of Dotun and Nonso highlight the complex interplay between passion, talent, financial constraints, and the pursuit of dreams in the world of chess.

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