Tunde Onakoya, a Nigerian chess champion renowned for his commitment to uplifting underprivileged children through the game of chess, embarked on a transformative journey in 2018 when he encountered two young brothers, Jamiu and Ayomide, residing in the impoverished Majidun slums of Ikorodu, Lagos. Jamiu, a bright and inquisitive child working as a roadside mechanic, caught Onakoya’s attention. Recognizing the potential within the young boy, Onakoya extended an invitation to Jamiu and his brother to join his weekend chess academy. This seemingly small act of kindness sparked a chain of events that would irrevocably alter the course of their lives.
As Onakoya spent more time with the brothers, a bond of connection formed, prompting him to visit their family. There, he met their mother, a resilient woman who had tragically lost her leg in an accident while scavenging for plastic bottles, her sole means of providing for her children. Abandoned by her husband after Jamiu’s birth, she bore the weight of responsibility alone, her unwavering love for her sons a testament to her strength. Onakoya was deeply moved by her story, a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by many families living in poverty. Little did he know, this encounter would mark a profound turning point in his own life.
In 2019, tragedy struck. The boys’ mother fell gravely ill, her fragile health succumbing to the hardships she endured. In a moment of profound vulnerability, she entrusted her sons to Onakoya’s care, her plea laden with a mother’s unwavering love and desperate hope for their future. Two weeks later, she passed away, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and a profound impact on Onakoya’s life. He accepted the responsibility, becoming a father figure to the two boys and embracing the commitment he had made to their mother.
With a newfound sense of purpose, Onakoya took Jamiu and Ayomide into his home, providing them with stability, care, and the opportunity to pursue their education. Jamiu’s inherent talent for chess blossomed under Onakoya’s guidance, transforming him into a formidable chess champion. He pursued his university education, his determination fueled by the memory of his mother and the unwavering support of his newfound guardian. Ayomide, a gifted athlete, excelled in track and field, his athletic prowess shining brightly as he navigated his final year of secondary school. Onakoya witnessed their growth with immense pride, his heart swelling with the joy of seeing them flourish.
Seven years after their initial encounter, Jamiu achieved a remarkable milestone that solidified his journey from the slums of Lagos to international recognition. He triumphed at the ICN Chess Championship in New York, outmaneuvering over 200 USCF-rated players and securing a $500 scholarship. This victory was a testament to his dedication, talent, and the transformative power of opportunity. Onakoya’s heart overflowed with pride as he reflected on Jamiu’s achievement, a poignant reminder of the promise he had made to their mother.
Jamiu’s story serves as a powerful illustration of the potential that resides within every child, regardless of their circumstances. Onakoya’s unwavering commitment to empowering underprivileged children through chess provided Jamiu with the platform to discover his talents and pursue his dreams. This transformative journey underscores the importance of mentorship, education, and the belief in the potential of every individual to overcome adversity and achieve greatness. Jamiu’s success is a beacon of hope, inspiring others to pursue their passions and reminding us that even in the darkest of circumstances, the human spirit has the capacity to thrive.
