Chess Advocate Tunde Onakoya Champions Inclusion for Children with Disabilities in Lagos

Tunde Onakoya, founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has emphasized the power of chess as a tool for inclusion, calling for greater integration of children with disabilities into educational and cognitive development programs.

He spoke on Saturday at the “Inclusive Chess Day” held at Whitesands School in Lekki, Lagos, an event organized by Vulpes Inclusive Engagement in partnership with his organization and supported by the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA).

Onakoya described chess as a game that transcends physical and social barriers. “It’s a game of the mind, and anyone with an active mind can participate,” he stated, highlighting the organization’s focus on personalized teaching methods for children who learn differently.

He shared an inspirational story of a 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy from Makoko who, after facing stigma, became a top player, won a scholarship, and recently secured a gold medal at an international championship in New York.

“The seed of ambition and curiosity… really improves their confidence in a very meaningful way. For us, it’s a starting point to show what is possible,” Onakoya added, while noting that resource constraints limit the expansion of their programs across over 20 African countries.

The event, themed “Every Child Deserves a Move,” brought together children with various disabilities, including autism and hearing impairments, with support from caregivers and sign language interpreters.

Onyinye Atuanya, Principal Consultant at Vulpes Inclusive Engagement, said the day promoted inclusion through chess, which enhances cognitive thinking and social interaction.

Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, General Manager of LASODA, affirmed the importance of the initiative, stating that disability does not equate to a lack of intellect. She hinted at plans to explore integrating chess into inclusive learning programs across Lagos State.