Lagos: The Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) has urged the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) (Chartered) to sustain its Schools Chess Championship initiative. NCF Vice-President, Adeyinka Adewole, made the call during the closing ceremony of the second edition held in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adewole commended NIM for promoting grassroots chess development and exposing young players to organised competition and international standards. He highlighted that the partnership between NIM and NCF allowed the championship to receive approval and rating from the International Chess Federation (FIDE). Adewole expressed the importance of sustaining and expanding the initiative to provide more opportunities for young chess talents across the country.
NIM President, Commodore Abimbola Ayuba (rtd), elaborated on the championship’s role in promoting strategic thinking, discipline, sportsmanship, and intellectual excellence among pupils and students. The competition, organised in partnership with Dynamic Chess Ville, involved primary and secondary school pupils from across Lagos State, with participation from 22 schools.
Ayuba explained that the contest, endorsed by NCF and rated by FIDE, was broadcast live to a global audience. He announced plans to expand the competition beyond Lagos, transforming it into a national championship in the coming year. The championship aims to promote inclusivity and nurture key life skills among young participants.
The event recognized several sponsors, including Laterna Books, Marvel Hotel, and CLE Engineering Consult Nig. Ltd., for their support through cash and product donations. Gemliz Group of School emerged victorious in the secondary schools category, winning the N250,000 top prize, with Kings College and Pivot Model Academy as runners-up. In the primary schools category, Jareb Private School took the top spot, followed by Chess in Slums and Truevine Primary School. Winners received cash prizes, trophies, and medals, while all participating schools were awarded certificates of participation.