More than 2,000 students from 500 schools across Nigeria are set to participate in the 2025 EcoBank National School Team Chess Championship, scheduled to take place from 26 to 28 June at the EcoBank Pan African Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, Adeyinka Adewale, disclosed this during a press conference held on Friday in Lagos, stating that the competition aims to promote chess development and unearth emerging talents among young Nigerians.
“This championship will bring together top young players from primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions,” Adewale said. “We are expecting over 500 schools and more than 2,000 students. It’s a great platform to discover hidden talents across the country.”
Adewale noted that many talented children have lacked opportunities to compete and be identified. “This tournament will allow us to properly support and nurture them,” he said. “We anticipate an exciting event filled with passionate young players eager to showcase their chess abilities.”
He also emphasised the wider educational benefits of chess, highlighting its role in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. “We are proud to support this event, which contributes to building Nigeria’s intellectual capacity and youth development,” he added.
Describing the event as a thrilling spectacle that will unite schools nationwide, Adewale acknowledged the partnership between the Nigeria Chess Federation, MTN Communications, and EcoBank. “We hope everyone has a rewarding experience and that this championship leaves a lasting impact,” he said.
He also highlighted the potential for chess tournaments to create employment opportunities through the recruitment of instructors. “If a national policy mandates the inclusion of chess in schools, it would necessitate hiring qualified teachers, which is another positive outcome,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, Adebukola Ademuyi, Head of Education Field and Social Services at EcoBank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to education and youth development.
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“As a truly pan-African bank, we are proud to once again partner with the Chess Federation for this important championship,” Ademuyi said. “This collaboration supports our broader human capital development strategy and aligns with our corporate social responsibility priorities.”
She noted that chess is a powerful tool for youth empowerment, helping to cultivate discipline, focus, and resilience. “We are delighted to support an initiative that delivers such meaningful impact to young people across the country,” she added.
The tournament is expected to be a landmark event in the nation’s sporting and educational calendar. With EcoBank’s support, the championship promises to inspire, challenge, and empower a new generation of chess players.
The competition will feature three categories primary, secondary, and tertiary with each category divided into three team groups. The grand finals will be held on Saturday, 28 June, with a significant prize pool up for grabs, encouraging high-level performances and spirited participation.
