A significant prize pool of 20 million naira is set to ignite the competitive spirit of young chess players as the Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championship returns for its third edition. Scheduled to take place on May 7 and 8 at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos, the event highlights a growing national investment in grassroots sports and intellectual development.
Organizers expect at least 1,500 students representing 300 schools from across the country to converge for the two-day tournament. The financial rewards have been structured to celebrate both teamwork and individual brilliance. The top team in the primary school category will walk away with 2 million naira, while the secondary school champions are set to claim 2.5 million naira. Beyond the collective trophies, standout performers on all five individual boards will also receive recognition for their personal contributions.
During a recent briefing, Adeyinka Adewole, the Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, emphasized that this initiative is specifically designed for students between the ages of 7 and 18. He noted that the tournament serves as a critical scouting ground for discovering the next generation of grandmasters. By providing a platform that meets international standards set by FIDE, the championship offers a clear pathway for young Nigerians to transition from school-level play to global competitive stages.
The sponsorship behind the event reflects a broader mission to empower the youth through education and strategic thinking. Adekunle Adewuyi, who oversees the education and social services segment at Ecobank, pointed out that chess is far more than just a game; it is a tool for sharpening problem-solving skills and discipline. By supporting the competition, the bank aims to prepare students for future leadership roles by fostering the mental rigour required at the chessboard.
Echoing this sentiment, Tomilola Fetuga, the bank’s head of brand management, added that the financial incentives are meant to complement the intellectual growth of the participants. The hope is that these rewards will serve as a strong motivator, encouraging more schools to integrate chess into their extracurricular activities. Since its debut, the championship has seen a steady rise in participation, and this year is expected to be no different, with entries anticipated from at least 15 states.
While logisitical hurdles like travel and accommodation remain a reality for schools traveling from outside Lagos, the organizers are confident that the prestige and incentives of the tournament will keep the momentum high. Participants will also benefit from being integrated into a global chess database, allowing them to track their progress and earn official ratings over time. Ultimately, the vision remains simple: to find and nurture a Nigerian grandmaster from among the sea of young talents competing this May.
