Homeless Nigerian Boy Who Won Chess Championship Invited By Ex-President Bill Clinton

Former U.S President, Bill Clinton has congratulated 8-year-old Nigerian chess champion, Tanitoluwa Adewunmi and also invited him and his parents to his office for personal introduction.

The young Nigerian recently won the New York State Chess championship for his age bracket. The New York Times reported that Tanitoluwa had won seven chess trophies including the state tournament, where he outwitted others.
The story went viral and got the attention of many notable personalities, including Clinton.

According to the New York Times, the young chess champion’s family are taking asylum in a homeless shelter in Manhattan after they fled the Boko Haram insurgency since 2018.

Tanitoluwa went undefeated at the state tournament, outwitting children from elite private schools with private chess tutors.

Tanitoluwa rating is now 1587 and rising. He is being compared with the world’s best player, Magnus Carlsen, who stands at 2845. His feat has attracted commendations from parents and celebrities.

In a tweet on his Twitter handle – @BillClinton, the former US number one citizen said: “Refugees enrich our nation and talent is universal, even if opportunity is not. This story made me smile, Tanitoluwa, you exemplify a winning spirit,  in chess and in life. And kudos to your hardworking parents. You all should stop by my office in Harlem; I’d love to meet you.”