Olu Of Warri Hosts Onakoya, Highlights Chess As Tool For Youth Empowerment
His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, has received globally renowned chess player and founder of Chess in Slums Africa (CISA), Tunde Onakoya, and his team on a courtesy visit, highlighting the role of chess in promoting intellectual development, leadership and social transformation among children from underserved communities.
The visit provided an opportunity for discussions on how chess can serve as a transformative tool for mental development, strategic thinking and empowerment, particularly among children with limited access to educational and developmental opportunities.
During the visit, the Olu of Warri engaged Onakoya in a game of chess, creating an engaging moment that underscored the intellectual depth of the game and its relevance to everyday life.
The encounter offered an opportunity to reflect on how the successive moves in chess mirror the complexities of real-life situations, emphasising the importance of strategy, foresight, patience and critical thinking in making decisions and overcoming challenges.
His Majesty expressed belief in the potential of chess to nurture intellectual capacity, inspire hope and create opportunities for children from underserved communities.
He also commended Onakoya for his work through Chess in Slums Africa, describing the initiative as an example of how purposeful interventions can unlock the potential of young minds and equip children with the confidence, skills and mindset to pursue a brighter future.
Through its focus on introducing chess to children in disadvantaged communities, Chess in Slums Africa has demonstrated how the game can extend beyond recreation to become a platform for learning, personal development and social change.
The visit further highlighted the importance of partnerships and initiatives that invest in children, strengthen their intellectual abilities and empower them to overcome social and economic barriers.
It also reinforced the broader message that nurturing young minds through education, strategic thinking and access to opportunities remains essential to building a more inclusive and promising future.
