Renowned Nigerian chess master and humanitarian, Tunde Onakoya, has opened up about his personal ambitions, revealing a bold desire to evolve beyond his widely celebrated image as a selfless philanthropist and chess mentor.
In a recent interview, the Chess in Slums Africa founder shared a heartfelt and candid side of his journey, one that goes beyond helping disadvantaged children learn the game of kings. While Onakoya has captured national and global attention for using chess as a tool to empower underprivileged youths in slum communities, he made it clear that his vision stretches far wider.
“I want to be a billionaire. And I mean that. I’ve always been afraid to say that,” he declared during the interview.
Far from abandoning his roots, Onakoya clarified that his desire for wealth and power stems from a deeper commitment to uplift others particularly the children who inspired his mission in the first place.
“I just don’t want to be known as just the chess in slums guy. The charity guy. I want to make a lot of money. And I also want to have a lot of power. And with that power comes new responsibility. And my responsibility and duty will always be to the children.”
Known for his humility, intellect, and transformative work in education and youth development, Onakoya’s statement has sparked conversations across social media, with many applauding his honesty and ambition.
His work with Chess in Slums Africa has already impacted countless lives, offering hope and education to children in marginalized communities through the strategic brilliance of chess. But now, the grandmaster has made it clear: he’s dreaming bigger and unapologetically so.
As he charts a new course toward affluence and influence, Tunde Onakoya remains grounded in purpose, reminding the world that true power lies in using wealth to serve others.
