Tunde Onakoya, the Nigerian chess player, has revealed he turned down lucrative money that could have changed his life.
In a recent post on X, Onakoya, who is the founder of Chess In Slums, disclosed that he rejected the “life-changing money” because it did not align with his values and vision.
The 30-year-old explained that turning down the offer was a tough decision, but he prioritized his integrity.
“I recently turned down life-changing money. Not because it was exactly wrong, but because it didn’t align with my values or the vision of who I’m becoming. It wasn’t an easy decision. I wrestled with it, and tried to justify saying yes. But in the end, integrity is the real wealth,” he wrote.
“I feel liberated by this decision. I can do anything now.
“Anyway, forever grateful to @OgaBoxx for helping me navigate this new chaos with so much grace and wisdom.”
Last year, Onakoya made headlines for attempting the world record for the longest chess marathon at Times Square in New York City. Although he didn’t receive the Guinness World Record, his determination and passion for chess remain inspiring.
Onakoya, who grew up in the slums, has been open about how playing chess helped him discover his potential.
Last October, he launched the first chess innovation hub in Lagos to nurture young talent in Nigeria.
The hub provides young talent free access to tech-related programmes, advanced chess training, and a book reading club.
Copyright 2025 TheCable. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from TheCable.
Follow us on twitter @Thecablestyle