Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya received a brand new Nord A9 SUV from Nord Motion after a friendly chess match with the company’s CEO, Oluwatobi Ajayi, and extended his ambassadorial deal
[dropcap]N[/dropcap]igerian chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, has been gifted a brand new Nord A9 SUV by indigenous automaker, Nord Motion.
Also read: Tunde Onakoya begins second “Guinness World Record” attempt for longest chess marathon in times square
The generous gift followed a friendly chess match between Onakoya and the Chief Executive Officer of Nord Motion, Oluwatobi Ajayi.
Onakoya shared his excitement and gratitude on his X.com account on Thursday, posting photos of the sleek new vehicle.
He wrote, “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. Of course the only way to get the new car was by not losing this match.”
He also revealed that the gift came with the extension of his ambassadorial contract with the Nord Motion brand for another year. Onakoya referred to Oluwatobi Ajayi as the “Elon” of Africa, praising his innovative thinking beyond the automotive industry.
“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,” wrote Tunde Onakoya.
“Proud to extend our partnership as Brand Ambassador for another year. Up Naija. A beauty to behold + made in Nigeria. Thank you #nordmotion for this incredible gift,” he added.
According to a statement released by Nord Automobiles on Wednesday, the presentation of the SUV took place on May 5, 2025.
The company stated that the gift symbolizes a reward for Onakoya’s global achievements and a celebration of shared values, including innovation, discipline, and Nigerian excellence.
The event featured a thrilling chess match between Onakoya and Ajayi, which ended in a draw, further cementing their bond and highlighting the strategic brilliance of both individuals.
Nord Automobiles emphasized that the friendly rivalry mirrors the passion and determination they both embody in their respective fields.
This Nord A9 is the second vehicle Onakoya has received from the company. In June 2024, he was also gifted a Nord SUV after winning a similar chess match against Ajayi, which marked the beginning of his role as a brand ambassador for the automobile firm.
Recall that in April, Onakoya, alongside his U.S. counterpart Shawn Martinez, officially set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon at 64 hours, marking Onakoya’s second time breaking this prestigious record.
Also read: Tunde Onakoya sets 58-hour new chess marathon record, pushes for 60-hour
He had previously completed a 60-hour chess marathon in April 2024, surpassing the previous record of 56 hours.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
