In the bustling, impoverished neighborhood of Makoko, Nigeria, a 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy defied the odds to become a chess prodigy and national hero. Ferdinand Mehunu’s remarkable journey from a slum to international acclaim is not just about his mastery of chess but about resilience, hope, and the power of opportunity.
Born into a family struggling to make ends meet—his father a fisherman and his mother selling fish at the local market—Ferdinand’s life seemed destined for hardship. He never attended school, had few friends, and lacked proper medical care. However, his story took a life-changing turn when he stumbled upon Chess in Slums Africa, a non-profit organization aimed at empowering children from underserved communities through the game of chess.
At first, Ferdinand was an outsider, simply watching through a window as other children played. But when the coaches invited him in, it was clear he was no ordinary child. In just 20 minutes, he grasped the movements of the chess pieces and began solving complex puzzles with astonishing ease.
Within a month, Ferdinand entered a local tournament, and to everyone’s surprise, he won the junior category with a perfect score. The community, once skeptical of his abilities, now cheered him on, celebrating his victory by carrying his trophy home by boat. His mother, who had once doubted his potential, could hardly contain her tears of joy. “For the first time, my child was no longer the joke of the community—he was a hero,” she said.
Ferdinand’s talent soon caught the attention of the nation. He played a ceremonial game with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and even faced Nigeria’s former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, in a friendly match. His accomplishments were recognized with the prestigious Indomie Heroes Award in 2024, where he won the Intellectual category for his courage and determination.
But the true highlight of his journey came when Ferdinand was invited to Athens, Georgia, USA, to participate in his first international chess tournament. There, he was awarded the Young Genius Award, a tribute to his brilliance and the profound impact chess has had on his life.
Today, Ferdinand continues to inspire not only with his chess skills but also through his determination and spirit. He now teaches chess to his younger brother and dreams of even greater success. His story is a testament to the idea that with opportunity, support, and determination, no obstacle is insurmountable.
Ferdinand Mehunu is not just a chess champion—he is a beacon of hope for countless children in underprivileged communities, proving that even in the toughest circumstances, greatness can emerge.
