Nigerian chess prodigy and philanthropist Tunde Onakoya has shared a deeply moving account of his early struggles, revealing how financial hardship forced him out of school — only for him to later rise as one of Africa’s most celebrated chess figures.
In a widely shared video clip circulating on social media, Onakoya recounted the difficult period when his family could no longer afford his education. His father, a commercial danfo driver, suffered a serious accident, while his mother earned a meager income as a cleaner. With limited resources, the family could only keep his younger brother in school.
“I learnt how to play chess in a barbershop when my parents had no money and I had to drop out ,” he said emotionally.
Despite these setbacks, Onakoya did not give up. Instead of formal classroom education, he discovered chess in a local barbershop — a moment that would change the trajectory of his life.
Today, Tunde Onakoya is recognized worldwide not just for his chess mastery but also for his humanitarian work, particularly his efforts to teach chess to underprivileged children and break records for the longest chess marathon.
His story has resonated strongly online, with many users praising his resilience. Comments described him as “built differently,” “brilliant and humble,” and a living example that “when opportunity no show, some people create their own path.”
Onakoya’s journey highlights the power of talent, determination, and alternative learning spaces in the face of systemic challenges like poverty and limited access to education in Nigeria.
The clip has sparked conversations about the importance of identifying and nurturing children’s natural abilities beyond the traditional school system.
“I learnt how to play chess ♟️ in a barbershop when my parents had no money and I had to drop out 😭
My dad, a danfo driver, had an accident, and my mum was earning little as a cleaner… only my younger brother could stay in school 💔”
—— Tunde Onakoya pic.twitter.com/eGtsjD7aF2
— carter🌚 (@carter6f) April 21, 2026
