This video celebrates a monumental achievement as Jamiu Ninilowo, a young man from Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria, won the gold medal at the 2025 United Nations Chess Tournament held at the UN Headquarters in New York. The post highlights Jamiu’s victory over a Russian opponent in a “thrilling endgame,” marking a significant milestone not just for Jamiu but for the broader mission of Chess in Slums Africa, the nonprofit founded by Onakoya.
Read more about Sports
Jamiu’s Journey to Victory
Jamiu Ninilowo Boluwatife from Ikorodu, Lagos, Nigeria, made history by winning the gold medal at the 2025 United Nations Chess Tournament held at the UN Headquarters in New York. His thrilling victory over a Russian opponent showed his incredible skill and determination, and it became a proud moment for him, his community, and Chess in Slums Africa, the nonprofit organisation founded by Tunde Onakoya.
Jamiu’s story is one of transformation. A few years ago, he worked as a roadside mechanic in the slums of Majidun, Ikorodu, alongside his younger brother, Ayomide. They struggled to support their family after losing their mother in 2019. When Onakoya met them in 2018, he saw their potential and invited them to join his chess academy. Jamiu quickly excelled in chess, while Ayomide focused on track and field. By 2025, Jamiu was studying at a university in the US, and Ayomide was in his last year of secondary school.
Before his big win at the UN Tournament, Jamiu Ninilowo had already achieved success in chess. He won the 2025 ICN Chess Championship in New York, defeating more than 200 players. This victory earned him a $500 scholarship and set the stage for his win at the United Nations tournament.
Chess in Slums Africa: Empowering Children through Chess
Tunde Onakoya, the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, grew up in poverty and understands how chess can change lives. After discovering chess through a school program funded by his mother’s work, Onakoya went on to become one of Nigeria’s top 30 chess players. In 2018, he started Chess in Slums Africa to help underprivileged children learn chess and use it as a tool for education and personal growth.
Chess in Slums Africa has already helped over 500 children, with many receiving scholarships for formal education. The program combines chess with STEM subjects, teaching kids skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience, essential for overcoming the challenges of living in poverty. The initiative has expanded from Lagos to other areas in Nigeria and even to Burkina Faso, aiming to reach one million African children.
Onakoya believes that chess is a tool for social mobility, helping children from disadvantaged backgrounds gain confidence and access opportunities. Jamiu’s story proves how chess can open doors, taking him from a mechanic in Ikorodu to a world-class chess champion.
The Global Impact of Jamiu’s Victory
Jamiu’s win at the 2025 United Nations Chess Tournament is more than just a personal achievement. It’s a powerful symbol of the impact of Chess in Slums in Africa. His success shows that with the right support and opportunities, children from all backgrounds can achieve great things. Jamiu’s victory also highlights the power of chess as an equaliser. It offers a level playing field where anyone can compete, regardless of their background.
Jamiu’s win has also brought attention to Chess in Slums Africa. People in New York have stopped Onakoya and the kids for selfies, and the organisation has gained financial support. So far, they have raised 50 million naira (about $122,000), which will help fund scholarships, training, and travel for more tournaments.
Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Jamiu’s victory at the UN Chess Tournament is a proud moment for Nigeria and Africa. It shows that greatness can come from anywhere, even the most unexpected places. Chess in Slums Africa is proof that with determination, hard work, and the right support, dreams can come true. Jamiu’s journey from a roadside mechanic to a gold medalist in New York is a story that will inspire many others.
Did you find this article useful? Contact us: [email protected]
Video here: https://x.com/Tunde_OD/status/1910227106983723428
