More than 200 schools from across Nigeria have registered for the upcoming National Schools’ Team Chess Championship, organized by Ecobank Nigeria in collaboration with the Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF). The event is set to commence on Friday, May 24, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Victoria Island, Lagos. Students from primary, secondary, and tertiary levels will compete for prizes totaling over N15 million.
Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, expressed delight at the high level of enthusiasm and participation. “We are impressed with the level of interest schools are showing towards the competition, judging by the registration so far,” he said. “Over 200 schools from all over the country have registered. It’s going to be an exciting time, and all arrangements are in place to ensure the competition is enjoyable and fulfilling for everyone involved.”
Adewole highlighted the educational benefits of chess, noting its role in enhancing critical thinking, concentration, and problem-solving skills. He also praised Tunde Onakoya, a celebrated chess master who recently broke the Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in New York’s Times Square. Onakoya’s achievement, Adewole said, underscores chess as a tool for social inclusion and development, not merely a pastime.
The competition, which is free to enter, offers schools the chance to not only win substantial prizes but also to represent Nigeria at international chess competitions. Interested schools can still register by emailing nationalschoolsteamchess@gmail.com.
Adewole encouraged sports enthusiasts and the general public to support the event, emphasizing the importance of encouraging young people to strive for excellence. “We encourage Nigerians from all walks of life, especially sports enthusiasts, to attend the event and support their favorite teams. This support will inspire young people to aim for the best,” he added.
The National Schools’ Team Chess Championship promises to be a significant event, fostering youth development through chess and providing an enriching experience for all participants.