Renowned Nigerian chess champion and Chess in Slums Africa founder, Tunde Onakoya, has received a brand new Nord A9 SUV from Nigerian auto manufacturer, Nord Motors.
The gift followed a friendly chess match between Onakoya and the company’s CEO, Oluwatobi Ajayi.
Onakoya shared the news via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, May 8, 2025, expressing heartfelt appreciation for what he described as a meaningful and generous gesture.
“Just got home to the most heartwarming surprise from my #nordmotion family—the stunning new Nord A9 SUV. Hands down the most beautiful car I’ve ever owned, but even more beautiful is the love behind this incredible gift. Grateful beyond words,” he posted.
He added that the match had to end without a loss for him to earn the gift, stating, “Of course the only way to get the new car was by not losing this match.”
Onakoya also announced the renewal of his role as a brand ambassador for Nord Motion, celebrating the continuation of their partnership for another year.
He praised the CEO, calling him, “the ‘Elon’ of Africa,” and commended him for being more than just a leader in Nigeria’s auto industry. “While most people know him for pioneering locally made cars, he’s also a deep thinker and innovator across different sectors,” he said. “Proud to extend our partnership… Thank you #nordmotion for this incredible gift.”
In a statement issued by Nord Automobiles on May 7, the company confirmed the vehicle was presented on May 5, 2025, as a tribute to Onakoya’s inspiring accomplishments and shared values such as innovation, excellence, and determination.
The company revealed that the vehicle presentation followed an intense game of chess between Onakoya and Ajayi, which ended in a draw. The match, they said, showcased the strategic brilliance and mutual respect between the two.
“The friendly rivalry between Onakoya and Ajayi reflects the precision, passion, and resilience that define both men—Onakoya on the chessboard and Ajayi in automotive innovation,” the statement read.
According to the brand, the new Nord A9 symbolizes not only Onakoya’s ongoing journey but also his relentless drive and success. “His story, like his record-breaking feats, proves that with every milestone, there’s always another victory—and sometimes, another car,” the company added.
This is the second vehicle Onakoya has received from Nord Motion, a reflection of the strong bond between the chess master and the local carmaker.
