Gladness Gideon
Celebrated Nigerian chess master and philanthropist, Tunde Onakoya, has been gifted a brand-new Nord A9 SUV by indigenous automobile company Nord Motion, following a friendly but competitive chess match with the firm’s Chief Executive Officer, Oluwatobi Ajayi.
Onakoya, founder of the transformative Chess in Slums Africa initiative, shared the news with his followers on Thursday via X.com (formerly Twitter), posting photos of the sleek vehicle and expressing heartfelt appreciation to the Nigerian auto brand.
“Just got home to the most heartwarming surprise from my #nordmotion family—the stunning new Nord A9 SUV,” Onakoya wrote. “Hands down the most beautiful car I’ve ever owned, but even more beautiful is the love behind this incredible gift.”
The chess champion humorously added that the gift came with a condition: “Of course the only way to get the new car was by not losing this match.”
The match in question, which ended in a draw, took place on May 5, 2025, and was designed as a symbolic contest between two trailblazers—Onakoya in the world of chess, and Ajayi in the automotive industry. According to a statement released by Nord Automobiles, the game celebrated not only Onakoya’s global achievements but also the values both figures share: innovation, strategy, and Nigerian excellence.
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“The friendly rivalry between Onakoya and Ajayi mirrors the passion, precision, and determination that both individuals embody in their respective fields,” the company said.
Alongside the SUV, Onakoya also announced the extension of his ambassadorial deal with Nord Motion for another year. He praised Ajayi’s vision and leadership, calling him “the Elon of Africa” and applauding the company’s commitment to pioneering locally manufactured vehicles.
“As his partnership with Nord continues to grow, this new car serves as a symbol of his extraordinary journey,” the automaker noted in its statement. “Just like his record-breaking chess game, Onakoya’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance.”
This marks the second vehicle Onakoya has received from Nord Motion, underscoring a flourishing relationship between the chess icon and the homegrown automotive brand. His continued rise in the global spotlight reflects not just sporting brilliance but a deep dedication to empowering disadvantaged youth through chess.
