Nigerian Chess Prodigies shine at U.S. Tournament, earn Medals, Scholarships

Young Nigerian chess players from the Chess in Slums Initiative have brought pride to the nation with their outstanding performance at the 12th Annual Chess & Community Conference in the United States.

Their success, which includes winning multiple medals and securing scholarships, has been applauded by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).

She described their victory as proof of the brilliance and resilience of Nigerian youth.

Hon. Dabiri-Erewa also praised Chess in Slums founder, Tunde Onakoya, for his relentless commitment to transforming the lives of underprivileged children through chess.

Founded by Onakoya, who holds a Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, the Chess in Slums Initiative has been instrumental in teaching critical thinking and boosting the confidence of disadvantaged children while opening doors to life-changing opportunities.

As these young chess prodigies continue to gain international recognition, their achievements highlight the immense untapped talent within Nigeria’s underserved communities, awaiting the right opportunities to thrive.