Video: Chess master Onakoya launches exclusive adire chess to fund free school, Davido shows interest
Abdullateef Fowewe
Nigerian chess master and social entrepreneur, Tunde Onakoya has designed 50 exclusive chess sets featuring traditional Adire patterns, each priced at 1 million naira (about 600 dollars).
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Onakoya announced via X (formally Twitter) on Sunday that buyers will receive personal delivery and a free chess lesson or game from him.
Half of the profits from the sales will be dedicated to establishing a free school in Nigeria, reflecting his ongoing commitment to education and youth empowerment through chess.
Onakoya, renowned for breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, wrote, “I recently designed 50 exclusive chess sets using Adire patterns, and I’m selling each one for 1 million naira(600 dollars).
“If you buy a set, I’d personally deliver it to you + a free chess lesson/game.
“Will put half the profit into a fund for building a free school in Nigeria.”
Responding to Onakoya’s tweet about selling exclusive chess sets, Davido enthusiastically wrote, “NEED!!! ❤️💪🏾” and confirmed buying five sets when asked by Onakoya.
Recalled that Davido has shown strong support for Onakoya during his Guinness World Record attempt for the longest chess marathon in New York City’s Times Square.
In a symbolic gesture, Davido adorned Onakoya with his signature 30BG chain, underscoring his solidarity and encouragement for the cause, which supports chess education for underprivileged children in Africa.
However, these luxury chess sets are hand screen-printed with African Adire textile-inspired designs and come in elegant packaging, symbolizing the fusion of culture and intellectual development.
This initiative aligns with Onakoya’s broader mission to use chess as a tool for social change, especially for underprivileged children in Nigeria.
The project exemplifies how Onakoya continues to leverage his chess achievements to inspire and uplift communities, aiming to rewrite narratives and foster opportunities for African youth.
