Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has been awarded a Nord A9 SUV by the indigenous automaker, Nord Motion, following an engaging and friendly chess match with the firm’s dynamic CEO, Oluwatobi Ajayi.
Onakoya, who is also the visionary founder of Chess in Slums Africa, took to X (formally Twitter) on Thursday to share his elation, posting photographs of the luxurious car and expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the company. In his post, he conveyed, “Just arrived home to the most heartwarming surprise from my #nordmotion family, the breathtaking new Nord A9 SUV. Without a doubt, it’s the most exquisite car I’ve ever had the pleasure to own, but even more beautiful is the affection behind this remarkable gift. I am truly grateful beyond words.”
He humorously noted, “Of course, the only way to receive this extraordinary car was by winning our match,” highlighting the competitive yet friendly atmosphere of the encounter.
In addition to the car, Onakoya announced that this generous gesture came with an extension of his ambassadorial contract with Nord Motion for another year. He expressed his admiration for Ajayi, stating, “I affectionately refer to #OluwatobiAjayiJ as the ‘Elon’ of Africa. While many recognize him as one of the pioneers of made-in-Nigeria automobiles, he is also a profound thinker and innovator in multiple sectors.”
Onakoya proudly shared his commitment to extend their partnership as Brand Ambassador for another year, also declaring, “Up Naija! A beauty to behold and a testament to Nigerian craftsmanship. Thank you, #nordmotion, for this incredible gift.”
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A statement released by Nord Automobiles on Wednesday highlighted that the presentation of the SUV took place on May 5, 2025. This momentous occasion was not just a reward for Onakoya’s remarkable achievements on the global chess stage but also a celebration of mutual values—innovation, discipline, and the spirit of Nigerian excellence.
The company’s statement elaborated, “In a fitting tribute to the brand’s ethos of competition, the event featured a gripping chess match between Onakoya and CEO Oluwatobi Ajayi. The match, while highly competitive, eventually ended in a draw, showcasing the impressive strategic skills of both players and further strengthening their partnership.”
The friendly rivalry exemplified the passion, precision, and determination that both Onakoya and Ajayi embody in their respective realms—Onakoya in the world of chess and Ajayi in automotive leadership.
As Onakoya’s collaboration with Nord continues to flourish, this new vehicle stands as a symbol of his extraordinary journey. Just as his groundbreaking chess performances have made history, Onakoya’s inspiring narrative reflects the essence of perseverance, demonstrating that with every new challenge he faces, there lies another victory waiting to be claimed—an emblematic new car, another game, and the promise of future triumphs.