The founder of Chess in the Slum, Tunde Onakoya who uses chess to transform lives of Nigerian children is at it again.

Onakoya usually organize interventions for children across the country and it was on one of his journeys to Internally Displaced People (IDP) Camp in Yola some months back, that he met an intelligent young girl who thirst for education.

He had posted the video of the Nigerian child who when asked what she wanted the most had answer , knowledge and her parent’s ability to pay her school fees and that of her siblings.

The video had circulated for a while on twitter and in February 2025, the chess in the slum convener posted an update on the transformation of the young girl whose dream are gradually unfolding in one of the best schools in Yola.

Onakoya had disclosed in the post that the milk of compassion and humanity still very much flow in Nigerians as they contributed to her education and that of other children at the IDP

His post read: “I shared a video featuring a remarkable young girl I met at an IDP camp in Adamawa Yola during our chess outreach. When I asked her what she wanted most in the world, she answered: wisdom and a chance to pursue her dreams through education.

“The video quickly went viral, reminding us all of our shared humanity and the importance of standing up for the girl child. Not only did we raise $5,000 to help other children in the community return to school, but a generous Good Samaritan also donated one million naira to her family.

“Thanks to this support—and with special thanks to Ronke Giwa (your anonymity is respected, but God bless your heart)—she is now attending one of the best schools in the country and will stay in the boarding facility.

“Her journey doesn’t end here; we must continue to support her in the years ahead. Please reach out to her chess coach, @ibrahimvivian51 or @chessinslums so we can ensure she receives everything she needs for her education.

“It is possible to do great things from a small place.” He added

Tunde Onakoya is a Nigerian chess player and coach who holds the Guinness World Records for the longest marathon chess game.

Photo credit: X|@Tunde_OD

By: Adeoye Olorunseun Elizabeth