By “Beat Me at Chess First!” – Tunde Onakoya Throws Challenge to Genevieve Nnaji’s Suitors
Celebrated Nigerian chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has sparked reactions online after issuing a bold challenge to anyone hoping to win the heart of Nollywood icon Genevieve Nnaji.
Taking to X Onakoya posted:
“Hmmm. I see that the competition is quite tough. I’ll only concede if any other suitor can beat me in a chess match.”
Though brief, the post has generated a flurry of reactions, with fans cheering the chessmaster’s confidence and others tagging it the “coolest love challenge of the year.”
The tweet, which appears to be a lighthearted response to growing social media chatter about Genevieve Nnaji’s reported return to the spotlight and renewed public interest in her relationship status.
Known for his work in using chess as a tool to uplift underprivileged children in Nigeria, Onakoya has become one of the country’s most admired young figures.
He shot to global fame earlier this year when he set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon, playing nonstop for 60 hours in New York City’s Times Square.
Now, in a humorous manner away from his usual advocacy, the chess whiz seems to have taken his strategic mindset into the realm of romance.
While Genevieve herself has yet to respond to the viral post, fans have begun speculating about who could take up the challenge and whether a high-stakes chess match for love might soon be in the cards.
One user commented: “Tunde just moved his queen—your move, rivals.”
Another fan wrote: “Even Genevieve will be impressed with this checkmate energy!”
Whether real or jest, Onakoya’s move has captured attention and added a charming chapter to the ongoing public admiration of one of Nollywood’s most revered stars.
