In a heartwarming story that has moved many Nigerians, chess champion and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has celebrated the incredible academic achievement of a boy he adopted from the streets of Lagos five years ago.
The boy, identified as Sunday, was just 10 years old when Tunde first encountered him scavenging plastics to survive. At the time, Sunday had never received any formal education. Today, against all odds, he has graduated with flying colours, a transformation that Onakoya describes as nothing short of extraordinary.
Sharing the inspiring journey on his X page, Tunde wrote:
“Five years ago, I saw him scavenging for plastic on the streets of Lagos to survive. I adopted him. Today the boy graduates with flying colors and a mind that’s ready to change the world. There’s truly nothing love cannot change.”
Alongside the post, he revealed a touching letter he had written to Sunday’s class teacher on his very first day in school. In it, he pleaded for patience and guidance, encouraging the teacher to help the boy cultivate a love for learning despite starting from scratch.
The story has since resonated widely, sparking admiration for Tunde’s commitment to using education and mentorship to transform lives. It also highlights the impact of compassion and opportunity, showing how one act of kindness can completely alter the course of a child’s future.
As Sunday steps into a new chapter armed with knowledge and ambition, his journey serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education and of individuals who choose to invest in others.