Over three days of competition, from June 26 to 28, 1,830 students from 366 schools gathered at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, to battle on the boards for a prize pool exceeding ₦20 million — the largest in the event’s history.

The tournament, backed by MTN Nigeria and co-organized by Chess in Slums Africa, showcased not only youthful talent and tactical brilliance but also a growing commitment to education, inclusivity, and youth empowerment.

Primary Schools Lead Opening Moves

Day one of the championship saw Jareb Private School emerge champions in the primary category, winning the top prize of ₦2 million. Chess in Slums Africa came second with ₦1.5 million, and Baptist Group of Schools clinched third place with ₦1 million.

Angela Babalola, Senior Manager at MTN Nigeria, described chess as more than a game:

“We see it as a platform for mind development and a way to position these future leaders to Go Make A Difference in their world.”

Tunde Onakoya Inspires with Presence and Purpose

Guinness World Record holder and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, served not only as a symbol of excellence but also as a hands-on mentor.

As an MTN Go M.A.D. (Make A Difference) ambassador, Onakoya stayed throughout the tournament, encouraging students, presenting awards, and modeling consistency.

“His presence reminds us of the power of visibility and love for the game,” said Prince Adeyinka Adewale, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation.

Secondary Schools Bring High Stakes and Higher Hopes

Platform School dominated the secondary school category, taking home ₦2.5 million, followed by Daysprings Secondary School with ₦2 million, and Shima Academy with ₦1.5 million.

Among the standout participants was Bethesda School for the Blind, whose participation marked a milestone in inclusive competition.

“They didn’t just show up, they won some games,” said Prince Adewale. “Their participation reminds us that true progress means everyone gets to play.”

Universities Lock Brains in the Final Round

In the tertiary division, University of Lagos (UNILAG) took the crown with ₦1 million. Nnamdi Azikiwe University earned second place and ₦500,000, while Obafemi Awolowo University placed third with ₦325,000.

Prize Pool Rises, So Does Impact

This year’s championship marked a significant increase in support, with the prize pool jumping from ₦16 million in 2024 to over ₦20 million.

The primary school category alone rose from ₦4.3 million to ₦6.4 million, while the secondary school pool increased to ₦9.2 million.

“The scale and impact have exceeded expectations,” said Prince Adewale. “This is the result of tireless work and long-term vision. From logistics to mentorship, every move has brought us closer to a national renaissance through chess.”

Chess as a Philosophy for Life

As the curtains fell, the mood was one of reflection and inspiration. Prince Adewale closed with a heartfelt message:

“Chess is not just about kings and queens, tactics and techniques. It is about life, decisions, patience, humility, and resilience. Let us raise thinkers. Because when we raise thinkers, we raise leaders.”

The 2025 Ecobank National Schools’ Team Chess Championship is more than a tournament — it is a growing movement. Powered by strategic partnerships with Ecobank, MTN Nigeria, and education-focused organizations, it is helping to equip a new generation of Nigerians — not just to play the game, but to win at life.

Launched at an intimate event on January 22, 2025, at MTN Plaza in Lagos, this bold initiative serves as a rallying cry for Nigerians to take strategic actions that inspire change and foster community development.

Tunde Onakoya, a Nigerian chess grandmaster and founder of Chess in Slums Africa is the face of the campaign.

Tunde, renowned for his innovative use of chess to uplift children in underserved communities, has been unveiled as the campaign’s ambassador.

His story—from humble beginnings to becoming a global changemaker—mirrors the essence of Go M.A.D: Dream big, push hard, and, above all, make a difference.

“Being a part of Go M.A.D. is deeply personal for me,” My story is a very interesting journey, I grew up in a small coomunity and at the age of 10, I couldn’t go to school anymore and was at home for a couple of years and it was at that time  when I found chess. Tunde said during the launch event. “Chess taught me strategy, discipline and gave me my own identity, but more importantly, it showed me the impact of sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for others and a way to fight for my own place in this world. I’m excited to work with MTN to inspire Nigerians that it is not enough to gain mastery, but use that knowledge and take bold steps toward making a difference.”

One of the highlights of the event was a live chess game between Tunde and several MTNers.

“At MTN, we believe in driving progress, giving our customers the power to rise above challenges and create something extraordinary. This is the very essence of the Go M.A.D campaign. It is premise on the idea that the MTN data gives you the power to take on the world, to do the extraordinary, and make a meaningful difference in your communities, families, and in your place of work. It is MTN’s way of saying; we see you, support you and are here to make your journey better.” said Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, chief marketing officer of MTN Nigeria. “Tunde’s story characterized by setbacks, determination and success exemplifies the very essence of the Go M.A.D campaign, and we are proud to have him as part of this campaign.”

The matches were friendly yet symbolic, showcasing the strategic thinking, intentionality, and collaboration needed to create lasting impact—qualities central to the Go M.A.D. campaign. The chessboard served as a metaphor for life, reinforcing that every move matters when pursuing meaningful change.

Beyond the initial fanfare, the telco aims to sustain the campaign’s momentum through community engagement. Tunde Onakoya’s journey, paired with MTN’s reach, creates a compelling call to action for Nigerians of all backgrounds.

For many, the campaign’s true power lies in its simplicity. Whether it’s mentoring a child, organizing a community cleanup, or advocating for a cause, Go M.A.D. reminds us that every effort counts. Just as in chess, small, deliberate moves can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

As the campaign unfolds, one thing is clear: The MTN Go M.A.D. initiative is more than a campaign. It’s a movement, a challenge, and a promise—to inspire Nigerians to make a difference, one move at a time.

Chess, on the surface, seems far removed from the realities of daily struggles — who would think of that in such situations?

But for Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, chess is more than just a game that could be inconsequential in difficult situations, it’s a potent tool that can empower millions.

The 60-hour chess marathon was a fundraising and awareness campaign for Onakoya’s ongoing initiative, Chess in Slums Africa. 

He pushed himself to the limit, playing non-stop with Shawn Martinez, a US chess champion, in New York City’s Times Square, to raise $1 million for children’s education across Africa. So far, a little over $119,000 has been raised and still ongoing. 

Tunde Onakoya has received support from Nigerians all over the world. President Bola Tinubu, Yemi Osinbajo, Atiku Abubakar, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Tony Elumelu among others, have commended his achievement and goal. 

Onakoya’s own story personifies the reason for his initiative. Growing up in an economically disadvantaged background himself, he found solace and a path forward through chess. 

This firsthand experience brought about his vision to use chess as a springboard for underprivileged children in Lagos, Nigeria. 

He launched Chess in Slums Africa in 2018, determined to break the cycle of poverty and societal marginalization.

The Opportunities Chess Brings 

Chess in Slums Africa doesn’t just teach the moves on the board. The organization’s approach leverages the multifaceted benefits of chess to make life better:

Educational Empowerment

Teaching us to look beyond the immediate task and consider the broader impact of our actions, Chess is a springboard for broader learning and Tunde identified that it could be more than a game. 

The organization integrates basic literacy and numeracy skills into its chess programs, teaching academic, educational, and critical thinking skills to those who might not have access to formal education.

Life Skills Development

The strategic thinking, problem-solving, and critical thinking gained through chess are important skills that benefit everyone in all aspects of life.

What makes Chess in Slums unique is its willingness to go where others might avoid, the very heart of slum communities. 

Just as a pawn in chess can be promoted to a queen when it reaches the eighth rank, Tunde believes that every child can be elevated from their disadvantaged position. 

The organization acts as a bridge, connecting these children to a brighter future where they can attain meaningful positions and status.

For businesses, this means investing in the development of your team’s core skills. These transferable skills will benefit them in all areas of their work.

Confidence and Self-Esteem

Success in chess tournaments enhances self-esteem and confidence. Everyone should really try it out.

Chess in Slums Africa believes that every child deserves a chance and a reason to dream. Regardless of their background, these children are the future leaders that tomorrow needs.

Celebrate successes, both big and small. Recognition builds confidence and motivates your team as a business.

Scholarship Opportunities

Chess in Slums Africa has secured scholarships for talented students to attend better schools through collaborations with international, domestic, and governmental bodies, companies, celebrities, organizations, and institutions. Over 200 children from indigent homes have secured lifelong scholarships.

This highlights the need for businesses to invest in the future by mentoring and providing opportunities for growth within their team.

A Safe Space

Chess in Slums Africa programs provide a safe and positive environment for children in challenging circumstances. They can learn, play, and socialize with peers in a structured setting. 

This means a positive and supportive work environment where your team feels safe to take risks and learn from mistakes, is highly essential for every business.

Chess in Slums Africa has impacted over 10,000 children’s lives. Tunde Onakoya has received numerous accolades, including The Future Awards Africa Prize for Community Action and the Business Insider Award for Social Entrepreneur of the Year.

A New Identity

Onakoya himself understands that chess might not directly put food on the table for these children every day. But what it can do is provide them with a new identity. 

Chess in Slums Africa operates in Lagos State, reaching out to children in communities like Ikorodu, Makoko, Oshodi, and Lekki-Epe. 

Despite his own battles and a recent surgery, Onakoya has not let these limit his vision. He is thriving to prove that it is possible to do great things from a small place.

His 60-hour marathon, undertaken in collaboration with The Gift of Chess, was not just to break a record, but using chess to expand opportunities and connections across society.

Key Takeaways:

Purpose Beyond Profit

While financial success is important, there’s great value in aligning your business with a cause you believe in. Chess in Slums Africa isn’t about generating profit; it’s about social impact. 

Finding a purpose beyond financial gain can boost your passion and motivate your team.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Huge change often starts with small actions. Onakoya began by teaching chess in his community and that small step was turned into a movement impacting thousands. 

Similarly, business owners can create positivity by focusing on ethical practices, environmental responsibility, and community engagement.

Relentless Perseverance

The road to success is rarely smooth. Tunde Onakoya has personally overcome challenges in his mission pursuit. 

Entrepreneurs and goal-driven individuals must cultivate perseverance to scale through setbacks and keep pushing forward.

The Power of Community

Onakoya’s 60-hour marathon drew support from Nigerians around the world. Building a strong community around your business, whether through customer engagement, employee relations, or partnerships, can bolster your efforts and drive you towards your goals.

He revealed this, on his LinkedIn page. According to him, the learning Hub will be open and free to underprivileged children without access to Education.

Going memory lane, the elated Tunde, described the deal as an appreciable step.  He narrated how he had nurtured the idea of building the biggest Chess Academy in the world two years ago, where the less privilege will have access to education.

According to him, “This is a dream come through for all us, I remember making that tweet on this exact day two years ago that my dream was to build the biggest chess academy in the world.

“That could become a safe learning haven for children from poverty without access to education to learn relevant skills for the future work. A place where we could nurture our best  minds and sets them on a  path to changing the world with their ideas.

“I didn’t know it was going to come to fruition then, but I believe this partnership is the start of something beautiful.

Tunde Onakoya is a Nigerian Chess master, Coach and Founder of Chess in Slums in Africa. He has Organized a number of interventions for children across slums in Lagos State including Majidun (ikorodu), Makoko and Oshodi.

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