Tunde Onakoya: I Want to Be a Billionaire, Not Just the Chess Guy
Chess champion Tunde Onakoya says he’s aiming for billionaire status to expand his impact.
He insists his pursuit of wealth and power is driven by a mission to help children.
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Renowned Nigerian chess master and humanitarian, Tunde Onakoya, has revealed his ambition to go beyond his widely celebrated identity as the founder of Chess in Slums Africa. In a recent interview, Onakoya boldly declared that he aspires to become a billionaire, emphasizing that he wants to build both wealth and influence to create even greater impact.

Speaking candidly, Onakoya said he’s no longer shy about expressing this dream, even though he has often been boxed into the label of a charity advocate. “I want to be a billionaire. And I mean that. I’ve always been afraid to say that. I just don’t want to be known as just the Chess in Slums guy or the charity guy. I want to make a lot of money. And I also want to have a lot of power,” he stated.
He stressed that his vision of wealth and power isn’t rooted in personal gain but rather in service to children and underprivileged communities. “With that power comes new responsibility. And my responsibility and duty will always be to the children,” Onakoya added, reaffirming his commitment to using his platform for good.
The remark has attracted widespread attention and triggered a variety of reactions across social media platforms.
@BlackUriel01 commented, “He would use chess moves to become what he wants to be.” Another user, @omo_ola_eluku, offered blessings, writing, “You deserve it bruv, May Eledumare be with you 🙏🙏🙏.”
Others offered more humorous takes. @bozzmanofficial joked, “Things are now making sense. What a politician! 😹🙌🏼” while @ObasedwardD1st wrote, “B like them don give this guy powder deal since him don go visit the powder lord. This guy na typical Yoruba guy.”
Regardless of the varied opinions, Onakoya’s ambition signals a new chapter in his journey, from being a social impact advocate to a man striving for economic empowerment and influence, all in the service of his larger mission to uplift lives through chess and education.