Ecobank National Chess Competition: Over 200 Schools Registered

Ecobank Nigeria, in partnership with the Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF), is set to launch the National Schools’ Team Chess Championship with over 200 schools registered to compete.

The championship, which spans primary to tertiary education levels, will commence on Friday, May 24th at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) in Victoria Island, Lagos. With more than N15 million in prizes, the event promises to be a significant occasion for young enthusiasts across the country.

Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, expressed his satisfaction with the high level of interest the competition has generated. “We are impressed with the enthusiasm from schools nationwide. Over 200 institutions, including primary, secondary, and tertiary schools, have registered.

All arrangements are in place to ensure the chess competition is both exciting and rewarding for all participants and stakeholders. We encourage sports enthusiasts and the general public to attend and support their favorite teams, fostering a spirit of excellence among the youth,” he said.

Prince Adewole emphasized the educational value of chess, highlighting its role in enhancing critical thinking, concentration, and problem-solving skills. He noted that the game is much more than a pastime; it is a powerful educational tool that can contribute to personal and academic development.

He also paid tribute to renowned  Tunde Onakoya, who recently set a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon in New York’s Times Square. “Onakoya’s global recognition is a testament to the game as a vehicle for social inclusion and development, not merely a recreational activity,” Adewole remarked.

For schools yet to register, Adewole urged them to seize the opportunity by sending an email to nationalschoolsteamchess@gmail.com.

 “Registration is free, and we encourage institutions to participate in this prestigious event. It offers a valuable experience for students, with the chance to win prizes and the opportunity to represent Nigeria at international chess competitions,” he added.

The National Schools’ Team Championship is poised to be a landmark event, showcasing the strategic minds of young Nigerians and promoting the game as a tool for educational and social development.

By Lekan Olofinsusi