NORD Motors Gifts Tunde Onakoya New SUV, Extends Ambassadorial Deal (Photo)

Nigerian chess master Tunde Onakoya has extended his ambassadorial deal with automaker, Nord Motors.

This is he received a brand new Nord A9 SUV from indigenous automaker after a friendly match with the firm’s CEO, Oluwatobi Ajayi.

Onakoya, who is the founder of Chess in Slums Africa, shared his excitement on X.com on Thursday, posting photos of the car and expressing his gratitude to the firm.

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 revealed that the gift also came with an extension of his ambassadorial contract with the brand for another year.

Onakoya added, “I call #OluwatobiAjayiJ the “Elon” of Africa because while most people only know him for being one of the pioneers made in Nigeria cars, he’s also a great thinker and innovator across board.

“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.”

According to a statement by Nord Automobiles on Wednesday, the presentation of the SUV took place on May 5, 2025, and symbolised not only a reward for Onakoya’s global accomplishment but a celebration of shared values—innovation, discipline, and Nigerian excellence.

The statement partly read, “In a fitting tribute to the brand’s spirit of competition, the event included a thrilling chess match between Onakoya and the CEO of Nord Automobiles, Oluwatobi Ajayi. The highly contested game ended in a draw, showcasing the strategic brilliance of both competitors and further cementing their bond.

“The friendly rivalry between Onakoya and Ajayi mirrors the passion, precision, and determination that both individuals embody in their respective fields-Onakoya in chess, and Ajayi in automotive leadership.

“As his partnership with Nord continues to grow, this new car serves as a symbol of his extraordinary journey. Just like his record-breaking chess game, Onakoya’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, and with every new challenge, there’s always another car to match the victory- another game, another car.”