Right behind him was Australian high‑stakes regular Geoffrey Mooney, who navigated the minefield to a strong runner‑up finish worth $717,000, while Belarusian crusher Mikalai Vaskaboinikau locked up $490,000 in third place. The international flavor of the final table continued with Kirill Shcherbakov from the Russian Federation banking $355,000 for fourth, and Finnish legend Patrik Antonius adding $270,000 to his career earnings in fifth after entering the last day as one of the players to beat; Austria’s Matthias Lipp picked up $200,000 for sixth, Bulgaria’s Boris Kolev claimed $160,000 in seventh, Daniil Kiselev from the Russian Federation earned $124,000 in eighth, and Austria’s Jessica Teusl secured $100,000 for ninth.

From a financial standpoint, this result is staggering: even as a chess grandmaster, Ladva would likely never touch a single payday of over a million dollars in open or elite chess events unless he somehow reached a World Championship match, an incredibly narrow path reserved for a tiny handful of players in each generation. Poker has already given him that life‑changing score, and when you place that $1.15 million victory against the typical earning ceiling in top‑level chess, it underlines just how big this win really is for him, both as a competitor and as a professional looking to maximize the value of his talent.

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The EWC, which only revealed its 2026 dates last month after a debut edition won by Magnus Carlsen, offers massive prize funds and esports-style global exposure, putting players in a bind between tradition and financial opportunity. An open letter signed by stars including Levon Aronian, Fabiano Caruana, Alireza Firouzja, Anish Giri, Vincent Keymer, Praggnanandhaa R, and Maxime Vachier-Lagrave warns that a clash between two of the most important events on the calendar hurts the entire professional scene, arguing that avoiding such conflicts should be a basic standard in chess just as it is in other sports, while fans and commentators debate online whether the new EWC or the established GCT should yield ground.

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Ken Lee sent three books to Albany Chess Center, and one of them is Inside the Mind of Bobby Fischer, written by International Master John Donaldson.

I have read many books about Bobby Fischer over the years. What made this one different for me is that it focuses on Fischer’s thinking, and not just about his playing.

One thing that really stood out is how conflicted Fischer was. He wanted to write honestly about chess, but at the same time, he was afraid of giving too much away. Especially to Soviet players. You see a man who wanted to create something clean and truthful, but who was also very protective of his ideas. He had tensions to deal with.

I found the story around My 60 Memorable Games especially interesting. Fischer almost pulled the plug on the book entirely. He deleted large sections of analysis and refused to approve the final proofs at one point. If that had happened, the book would have been stripped down to almost nothing. He would rather walk away than put out something he felt was compromised. In the end, he allowed the book to be published properly, and it became one of the most important chess books ever written.

Another part I enjoyed was seeing Fischer as a writer for everyday readers. His articles for Chess Life and even Boys’ Life show that he could explain chess in a very direct and simple way. That side of him is rarely mentioned. People often forget that he was willing to teach and explain his ideas.

The book also shows how seriously Fischer took accuracy. He rechecked games, questioned established opinions, and even corrected strong players and editors when he thought they were wrong. He made mistakes too, and that is shown honestly. That balance is important because it makes him human without diminishing his greatness.

What I liked most is how carefully Fischer worked. Proofreading, revising, rethinking variations. His work ethics is worthy of emulation. He wrote letters back and forth about details most people would ignore. You don’t only get to see what he achieved, you also get to see how his mind worked.

This book gave me stories and details I had not seen elsewhere. It deepened my understanding of Fischer as a serious, demanding, and often conflicted thinker.

Thank you to IM John Donaldson for doing the work to bring these details together, and again to Ken Lee for the gift. This is a book worth reading if you want to understand Bobby Fischer beyond the headlines.

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The 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championship will be remembered as more than just another tournament on the calendar. It was a chess festival filled with tension, late-night calculations, youthful audacity, veteran composure, and moments that will live long in Nigerian chess folklore.

As the championship approached its final stretch, the atmosphere inside the playing hall shifted. Gone were the early-round pleasantries. By Day 7, every game is crucial, every half-point felt like gold, and one mistake could erase days of hard work.

The Decisive Sprint: Where Titles Were Won and Lost

Rounds 9 and 10 marked the championship’s decisive sprint, especially in the fiercely contested Open Invitational section. With the finish line in sight, players knew this was the moment to either press forward or fall behind.

CM Tennyson Olisa Ewomazino announced his title intentions in emphatic fashion in Round 9, delivering a stunning victory with the black pieces against Ajibola Olanrewaju in a tense 42-move battle. A single queen misstep opened the floodgates, and Olisa’s knights went to work with ruthless precision. By the time the final pawn push landed, checkmate was unavoidable.

Not to be outdone, FM Abdulrahman Abdulraheem Akintoye responded in Round 10 after a frustrating draw earlier. Locked in a tough French Defense against IM Oluwafemi Balogun, Abdulraheem kept his head when the board caught fire. Eventually, his composure paid off, sealing a vital win that kept the championship race wide open.

A New Queen Takes the Throne!

If the Open was dramatic, the Women’s section was commanding.

Suleiman Azumi Ayisha didn’t wait for the final round to make her statement. Her penultimate-round victory over WCM Deborah Quickpen effectively ended the title race. Calm, confident, and ruthless when it mattered, Ayisha stamped her authority on the event.

Quickpen bounced back strongly in the final round to secure second place, while defending champion Toritsemuwa Ofowino closed out with a win to finish third.

Masters and U2000;

In the Masters Category, veteran International Master Adu Oladapo displayed a good show of experience, and, well, good form. A calm, professional draw in the final round was all he needed to lock up first place. No panic, no drama, just class.

National Sports Festival Medalist, Habila Jehu Thomas finished second with 6.5 points and ELO gain of 81,2, while Matan Adebayo and Chima Mount Zion shared third.

The U2000 section delivered its own quiet tension. Babayanju Rotimi stayed consistent from start to finish, and when it mattered most, he delivered a final-round win to clinch the title with 7.5/9. Akporherhe Blessing, Nwankwo Victor, and Taiwo Daniel followed closely, just half a point behind.

Blitz, and Closing Ceremony

The championship concluded with the ever-exciting Jonathan Odega Memorial Blitz, where speed met skill. Lapite Oluwadurotimi, CM Tennyson Olisa, and IM Aikhoje Odion tied for first, with Odion emerging Blitz Champion on tiebreaks. In the women’s blitz, WCM Deborah Quickpen claimed the National Women’s Blitz title.

A dignified closing ceremony followed, graced with the presence of the Nigeria Chess Federation Board Members, including Senator Dankwambo Ibrahim Hassan (President), Prince Adewole Adeyinka (Vice President), Mrs Ejiro Thukson (Secretary General), IA Amisu Omotayo, Dr Durotoye Bode Ali, Dr Uwana Eugene, and Mrs Toun Engore, . The Chairperson of Orchid Hotels, Mrs Odega, and her daughter Uche Odega were also in attendance and on the high table, as our Platinum Sponsor, a position they have held since the inception of the National Championship Organization (by OLCC) in 2021. As awards, medals, and trophies were presented. In a powerful closing announcement, the NCF President revealed an additional ₦1,000,000 increase to the top prize money for both the Open and Women’s Invitational sections—a strong signal of intent for the future of competitive chess in Nigeria.

From rising stars to seasoned masters, from classical battles to blitz fireworks, the Nigeria National Chess Championship 2025 delivered on every front. It was competitive, emotional, dramatic, and deeply Nigerian.

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Day 5 of the Nigeria National Chess Championships 2025 brought a slight shift in rhythm, but not a drop in intensity. While players in the Invitational section finally stepped away from the boards to catch their breath after six grueling rounds, the Masters and U2000 categories kept the fire burning.

In the Masters section, IM Adu Oladapo continued his impressive run, sitting comfortably at the top of the standings after Round 4. However, the margin remains slim, with Akinseye Oladatoun close behind in second place, lurking patiently and ready to pounce at the slightest slip. At this level, nobody relaxes; one small mistake could change everything.

Over in the U2000 category, Babayanju Rotimi has been nothing short of dominant, leading the standings after Round 4 with a perfect 4/4 score. For someone who has been away from tournaments a while, Rotimi seems calm, focused, and consistent, he has set the pace for the chasing pack, though plenty of rounds remain for the tables to turn.

But the real buzz of the day came away from the classical boards.

Corporate Chess Takes the Spotlight

The highlight of Day 5 was the Corporate Chess Event, a refreshing initiative that brought the business world straight onto the chessboard. Teams from Lasena, Arise TV, Seplat, and Zenith Bank sent representatives to compete in a fast-paced 3-minute blitz format, turning the hall into a lively mix of strategy, laughter, and competitive banter.

The blitz games delivered pure adrenaline, no time to overthink. Corporate representatives, many balancing their professional careers with a passion for chess, demonstrated impressive fighting spirit as they represented their organizations with pride.

The atmosphere was electric. Wins were celebrated loudly, losses shrugged off with smiles, and every game reminded spectators that chess isn’t just about titles and ratings; it’s also about enjoyment, connection, and mental sharpness.

Looking Ahead

As the Invitational players used the rest day to reset and prepare for the decisive final stretch, Day 5 served as a timely reminder: chess belongs to everyone. From titled masters pushing for national glory to corporate professionals testing their nerves in blitz battles, the board remains a level playing field.

With the rest day now behind us, attention turns to the final rounds ahead; where pressure rises, margins get thinner, and only those who can hold their nerve will stand tall when it matters most.

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The 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championship entered a fresh and intriguing phase on Day 4 as the Masters and U2000 categories officially joined the competition, even as the Invitational players pushed deeper into their demanding round-robin campaigns.

After two days of fireworks, fearless attacks, and wild swings in the U20, U14, and U10 sections, the arrival of the Masters and U2000 players brought a different kind of tension into the playing hall. The atmosphere shifted, quieter, heavier, and more deliberate.

The Masters section featured several familiar names, including IM Adu Oladapo (2143), Okemakinde Toluwanimi (2169), Dasaolu Olurotimi (1945), and Oyepitan Joshua (2128). In the U2000 category, contenders such as Nwankwo Victor (1998), Ogunsanya Tobiloba (1982), and Iyoha Emmanuel (1968), and of course the defending Under 2000 champion himself, IZUOGU, Mickey.

In The Invitational Section:

Action continued unabated in the Invitational section, where Round 5 delivered one of the tournament’s most grueling encounters. On the top board, IM Odion Aikhoje (2280) and FM Abiola Daniel Akinseye (2238) fought to an exhausting 106-move draw in a London System that tested both players’ stamina and endgame technique. Aikhoje pressed deep into the endgame, his king marching all the way to a5 as his pieces dominated much of the board. Yet Akinseye refused to crack, showing immense resilience, particularly after the critical 85…gxf6?! moment, holding firm to escape with a draw after more than three and a half hours of play.

Meanwhile, the African Super Zonal Chess Champion, CM Tennyson Ewomazino Olisa (2279) made a strong recovery from his earlier loss to FM Kigigha by defeating IM Oluwafemi Daniel Balogun (2194) in a Réti Opening. Black’s inaccuracies with 15…Rac8?! and the costly 21…f6? allowed Olisa to seize full control. He converted methodically, winning the exchange with 31. Nxc8 and closing out the game in 44 moves.

Defending champion Tersee Ferdinand Nyuima (2188) showed his class against fellow junior contemporary Odey Goodness Ekunke (2195), a four-time National Championship contender. Nyuima ground out a hard-fought victory in a 66-move battle that was balanced for long stretches. The turning point came when Black slipped with 34…Be3?, allowing Nyuima to win the exchange and calmly convert the resulting endgame with trademark precision.

In the sixth round, FM Abiola Daniel Akinseye’s unbeaten run, which had held firm since round two, finally came to an end. The streak was snapped by the Zone 4.2 champion, FM Abdulrahman Akintoye Abdulraheem, who delivered a commanding performance in an Old Sicilian that lasted just 37 moves.

The turning point came when White played 17.c4?? at the wrong moment, opening up the position and giving Black exactly the targets he needed. Abdulraheem wasted no time seizing the initiative, launching a powerful and precise attack that left little room for escape. The sequence 27…e3, followed by the forcing 28…exf2+ 29.Kxf2 Ng4+, ripped through White’s position and convincingly sealed the outcome.

Odey Goodness Ekunke (2195) picked up a crucial win against Lucky Musa Keyi (2082) in a Queen’s Gambit Declined after Black’s costly 29…g5?? allowed White to transition smoothly into a winning endgame. On board six, Aikhoje and Olisa were again locked in battle, eventually splitting the point after a punishing 70-move struggle.

Women’s Section:

In the Women’s section, Round 5 delivered plenty of action, producing four wins and two draws as the battle for the top spots heated up. Leading the charge was tournament leader, WCM Deborah Quickpen, who kept her fine form going with a clean, no-nonsense victory over Abdulsalam Azeezat. After patiently squeezing in the endgame, Quickpen capitalised on a late slip from her opponent to secure the full point and tighten her grip at the top.

On board two, it was another tough outing for NWANKWO Michelle Chiamaka, who has struggled to find her rhythm in this event. She fell to Olympian Iyefu Joy Onoja, who showed composure and experience to take control and finish strongly.

However, the real headline came in Round 6, where PELOMOH Jessica stole the show with a stunning win over the defending women’s champion, Toritsemuwa Ofowino. It was the kind of result that reminds everyone why ratings and titles can only tell part of the story.

Looking Ahead

With Day 4 wrapped up, the championship now takes a well-deserved breather on Day 5. Players will step away from the boards to rest, reset, and rework their plans before returning for the decisive battles ahead, as the race for the various crowns enters its most critical and unforgiving phase.

Photo Credit: Othims Visuals- Official event photograph

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Day Three inside the playing hall felt like a pressure cooker. This was the day the young players had been preparing for; three rounds in one day, no hiding place, no second chances. By morning, it was clear this would not be a day for cautious chess.

If Day Two was about testing positions and settling nerves, Day Three was pure survival. Every move mattered. Every second on the clock carried weight. The excitement of the previous day gave way to sharp focus, as players understood that podium places would be decided not by reputation, but by endurance and nerve.

It wasn’t just an eventful day for the players; arbiters moved briskly between boards, starting clocks, recording results, and keeping order. Parents and coaches watched closely from the spectator areas, some refreshing pairings on their phones, others offering quiet encouragement between rounds. The tension was heavy, but the atmosphere was alive.

And the pressure was loudest in the oldest youth category (Under-20).

The U20 section delivered the most mature and strategically demanding chess of the youth categories. While many of the players are still building tournament experience, in the under-20 category, the ambitions were unmistakable. Games were approached with seriousness, caution, and a clear understanding of the stakes.

By Round Five, the picture at the top began to take shape. Players within striking distance of the lead pushed harder, while those slightly behind took risks, knowing that one strong result could change everything. The pressure showed on the boards: long thoughts, tightened grips on pieces, and clocks ticking louder than usual.

When the dust finally settled and the last clocks stopped, the standings spoke clearly. The leaders had held their nerve, and the podium places were decided. Yet the final standings ignored rating gaps entirely, proving once again that ratings don’t play moves, players do.

U20 Final Standings – Top 5

Final Ranking after 6 Rounds

With the Under-20 done and dusted, attention naturally shifted to the category that brought both brilliance and chaos in equal measure.

If entertainment was the measure, the U14 section delivered in abundance. These players are growing up on modern chess: YouTube lessons, online blitz, and private coaching, but tournament experience still varies widely. The result was fearless attacking chess mixed with moments of defensive collapse.

Games swung wildly. Strong positions were built and then suddenly thrown away. Brave sacrifices appeared on the board, sometimes sound, sometimes hopeful. But through it all, the confidence of this generation was clear. Nobody was afraid to take responsibility for their moves.

At the end of six demanding rounds, consistency rose above chaos, and the final standings rewarded those who combined courage with control.

U14 Final Standings – Top 5

Final Ranking after 6 Rounds

As the applause faded and the older juniors packed up, the youngest competitors were still buzzing with energy — and they provided the perfect closing chapter to the youth section.

If anyone needed a reminder of why chess is beautiful, the U10 section provided it. There was joy, curiosity, confusion, and excitement all rolled into one. Pieces were moved with confidence one moment, hesitation the next, but the enthusiasm never dropped.

Win or lose, the smiles were constant. Some children celebrated victories loudly, others accepted losses quietly, but all of them showed a genuine love for the game. Parents watched proudly, less concerned about results and more focused on effort and passion.

By the end of the rounds, even at such a young age, excellence still found its way to the top.

Final Ranking after 6 Rounds

By the end of the day, as players and their families packed up boards, gathered their score sheets, and prepared to leave the venue, the impact of Day Three was written clearly on every face. Some walked away as champions, others with hard lessons learned about preparation, focus, and mental toughness. But without exception, every player left with more experience, a deeper understanding, and a stronger passion for chess than they had when they first arrived.

As these young players return to their homes, their clubs, and their training routines, they carry with them more than just results. They carry experiences that will shape them both as chess players and as individuals. Some will return next year, driven to improve on this year’s showing. Others may have discovered a lifelong love for the game, one that goes far beyond wins and losses.

And while the curtain has now closed on the youth section, the championship itself moves forward. Day Four will usher in the Masters and U2000 categories, even as the Invitational battles continue to unfold, promising more drama across the boards.

The Invitational: Pressure Rises as Margins Get Thinner

FM Bomo Kigigha came into Day Three with confidence after his masterful positional victory over FM Akinseye, but round-robin chess offers no comfort. Every opponent is dangerous, and every round is unpredictable.

Inside the playing hall, the tension was impossible to miss. IM Balogun, who had put in a solid performance on the opening match day, securing a draw in Round One and a win in Round Two, arrived early and fully focused, determined to prove that his resilience could translate into victories when it mattered most. At this level, the real question is not simply who can win, but who can remain composed under pressure and protect even the smallest advantage.

That question began to answer itself from Round Three.

Invitational – Round 3: Upsets and Missed Chances

On the top board, IM Oluwafemi Balogun (2194) and the veteran Abiola Daniel Akinseye (2238) played out a hard-fought draw in a Ruy Lopez Closed. Balogun pressed with space and queenside play, but Akinseye defended accurately, regrouping his pieces and neutralising White’s initiative. With neither side able to break through, the point was shared, a result that kept the race tight.

Elsewhere, the shock of the round arrived when Ajibola Olanrewaju (2179) stunned FM Abdulrahman Akintoye Abdulraheem (2317). A seemingly quiet Colle System spiralled out of control for the higher-rated player, and the veteran IM Olanrewaju punished every inaccuracy with ruthless precision. It was a reminder that at this level, mistakes are costly.

The result sent a ripple through the standings and set the tone for an even tougher Round Four.

Invitational – Round 4: Endurance, Errors, and Recovery

Round Four tested stamina as much as skill. FM Bomo Lovet Kigigha (2259) continued his strong run, surviving a chaotic Catalan against CM Tennyson Olisa (2279). Both sides made mistakes, chances swung back and forth, but FM Bomo held his nerve in the endgame, converting with calm precision after 70 demanding moves FM Bomo claims the victory.

The Women’s Section:

In the women’s section, Round Three delivered plenty of drama at the top boards. On board one, Iyefu Joy Onoja (1982) defeated Jessica Pelomoh (1868) in a Slav Indian that quickly turned into a tactical slugfest. After multiple exchanges in the middlegame, the position remained fairly balanced until Black’s critical mistake, 30…Ne5? opened the door for White. Although Onoja missed the immediate punishment with 31.Bc4+??, Pelomoh soon cracked under pressure, committing further errors with 31…Nxc4?? and 32…hxg6??. This allowed White’s queen to invade decisively via 33.Qxg6+, and after 34…Re5??, the final blow 35.Rc8+ forced resignation with checkmate looming.

Elsewhere in Round Three, WCM Deborah Ebimobo-ere Quickpen (2116) fought to a hard-earned draw against Eunice Ajanwachukwu (1936) in a Sicilian O’Kelly that swung wildly from start to finish. The game was filled with tactical complications and notable inaccuracies from both sides, including 31.Rc7?? from White and earlier Black errors, such as 23…Bc6?? and 26…Nd5??. After the dust settled and pieces were traded down, the game transitioned into a tense endgame. Quickpen advanced her passed b-pawn to b6 and marched her king to c7, but Ajanwachukwu’s active bishop on e4 and dangerous passed g-pawn provided enough counterplay to secure a draw after 68 gruelling moves, a strong display of defensive resilience against higher-rated opposition.

Round Four saw WCM Toritsemuwa Ofowino (2018) respond positively after her earlier setback, claiming a hard-fought victory over Peace Samson (1911) in a Ruy Lopez Steinitz Defence. Ofowino built a commanding position after 21.Nxc7 won the exchange and handed her a material edge. However, the game was far from smooth sailing. Blunders such as 38.Rf3?? and 41.h3?? allowed Samson dangerous counterplay, with a passed e-pawn reaching e2 and creating real threats. Just when it seemed Black might turn the tables, Samson’s critical error 44…Nxf3?? handed the initiative back. After 45.bxc5 Nxe1 46.Qb6+ and 47.c6, White’s advanced c-pawn and dominant queen proved decisive, forcing resignation with checkmate looming after 48.Qd8+. It was a resilient performance from Ofowino, who showed mental toughness to recover from her own mistakes and capitalise when it mattered most.

Also in Round Four, Azumi Ayisha Suleiman (1990) edged Eunice Ajanwachukwu (1936) in a tense Queen’s Gambit Declined encounter. The balance of the game shifted sharply after Black’s 23rd-move blunder (f4??) handed White a significant advantage. However, White failed to convert immediately, allowing Black to claw back into the game as it transitioned into the endgame. In the resulting knight-versus-knight struggle, Suleiman’s superior technique told, as she steadily advanced her pawns and forced resignation after 72 moves, with checkmate unavoidable.

The remaining Round Four games were just as competitive. Jessica Pelomoh and Sandra Omoruyi played out a dramatic draw in an Indian Defence, highlighted by a long perpetual check sequence beginning on move 42. WCM Deborah Quickpen bounced back with a win over Joy Erhabor in an English Opening, where White’s 19.Ne2?? allowed Black to seize the initiative, before a final blunder on move 38 sealed the result. Elsewhere, Abdulsalam Azeezat held WCM Michelle Nwankwo to a draw in a London System, while Iyefu Onoja and Bridget Michael shared the point in an Italian Game after White missed a winning chance with 31.Nf3 instead of the stronger 31.Rexe2.

With the intensity of Round Four complete, the women’s section now heads into a brief pause. The players will enjoy a well-deserved rest, regrouping both mentally and physically, before returning for the decisive battles that will determine the final standings of the championship.

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The 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships truly came alive on Day Two, following the glamour of the opening ceremony. From the early hours, the playing venue buzzed with energy as over 300 young players arrived, boards in sight and minds sharpened, ready to test their skills on the national stage.

By around 10:00 am, the pieces were in motion. The youth categories got underway with three rounds of intense chess, setting the tone for a day filled with excitement. But while the juniors brought passion and fire, the spotlight later shifted to the Invitational section, where Nigeria’s elite players served up two rounds of top‑class chess that lived up to every expectation.

Youth Categories: Show of Raw Talent

The waiting area for the youth section was a lively mix of anticipation and anxiety. Parents and guardians sat patiently, eyes fixed on the doors of the playing hall, while the young players across the U20, U14, and U10 categories waited for their names to be called. Anyone familiar with competitive chess could read the emotions clearly: excitement, uncertainty, and fierce determination.

Under 20: Big Names Make Early Statements

The U20 category got underway under the familiar Swiss system, with higher-rated players paired against lower-rated opponents. While there were no easy games, the early rounds largely reflected the gap in experience, as the top seeds asserted themselves across the boards.

Jamiu Ninilowo of Chess in Slums Africa wasted no time in announcing his intentions, grinding out a hard-fought victory against Harshit Shakya in a game that demanded patience and accuracy. Osayande Victory (2123 ), the highest-rated player in the section and one of the pre-tournament favourites, also began his campaign on a positive note, claiming a solid win with the black pieces after a resilient and composed performance.

However, unrated youngster Aadyansh Maharana made an immediate statement by upsetting Audu Jonah (1728), recording the first notable surprise of the section and serving early notice that the U20 field would not simply follow the ratings on paper.

Under 14: Fearless and Sharp

If Day Two proved anything, it is that today’s U14 players are not afraid to attack. The games were sharp, aggressive, and surprisingly mature, with combinations and positional ideas well beyond their years. AFM Agusionu Kevin impressed with a convincing first‑round win playing black, while Evbuomwan Henry delivered one of the standout performances of the day. Playing white, Henry showed remarkable patience, steadily improving his position before striking with a decisive tactical blow; a performance any seasoned player would admire.

Under 10: Chaos, Joy, and Sparks of Brilliance

As expected, the U10 section provided its own brand of entertainment. There were bold ideas, obvious blunders, and moments of pure creativity, the kind that remind everyone why chess is so captivating. Beyond the moves, however, the real highlight was the joy on the faces of the children. Win or lose, they were simply happy to be part of the experience

I must say, I admired how the Parents, seemed less concerned with results and more focused on enthusiasm and effort. In many ways, that spirit alone felt like a victory.

Invitational Section: Where Experience Meets Precision

If the youth categories showed promise, the Invitational section delivered elite‑level chess. Here, games were decided not only by tactics, but by psychology, preparation, and endgame technique. The two rounds played on Day Two offered spectators exactly what they came for: deep ideas, long battles, and no easy points.

In Round One, FM Bomo Kigigha (2259) faced FM Abiola Daniel Akinseye (2238) in a Dutch Defence that gradually turned into a positional masterclass. After a theoretical opening phase, Kigigha seized the initiative with the subtle 11.cxd5, exploiting Black’s awkward piece placement. From there, he patiently increased the pressure, squeezing space and activity until his advantage became clear. It was a calm, controlled display of high‑level chess.

On Board One, IM Oluwafemi Balogun (2194) and Bartholomew Okhipo (2216) fought to a hard‑earned draw in a Caro‑Kann Advance Variation. The middlegame featured tense manoeuvring before queens were exchanged, leading to a rook endgame that tested both players’ endurance. Despite Balogun’s ambitious king march deep into enemy territory, Okhipo’s active rook defence held firm, and the game ended with a well‑deserved split point.

Round Two produced another highlight on Board Three, where FM Abdulrahman Akintoye Abdulraheem (2317) outplayed FM Denyefa Callistus Eyetonghan (2273) in a Slav Exchange. After an early queen trade, Abdulraheem demonstrated excellent endgame technique, gradually improving his position, activating his king, and converting his advantage after 57 moves. It was a lesson in patience and precision.

Women’s Invitational:

The Women’s Invitational also delivered compelling battles. In Round One, top board saw Azeezat Abdulsalam (1878) defeat Jessica Pelomoh (1868) in a sharp Slav Defence. Abdulsalam’s active knight dominated the middlegame, and after queens were exchanged, she converted her advantage with confidence, eventually sealing the win in a long rook endgame.

Round Two saw Pelomoh Jesicca respond strongly, holding Samson Peace to a hard‑fought draw in a tense 60‑move encounter that tested both players’ mental strength. On Board Three, WCM Deborah Ebimobo‑ere Quickpen (2116) recorded an impressive victory over the defending women’s champion, Ofowino Toritsemuwa (2018), in a tactical French Defence Winawer. After complications erupted in the middlegame, Quickpen kept her nerve, pushed her passed pawn with authority, and forced resignation on move 59.

Day Two Verdict

By the close of Day Two, the 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships had fully found its rhythm. From the fearless brilliance of the juniors to the composed mastery of the Invitational players, the quality of chess on display was unmistakable.

With the standings still wide open and plenty of rounds to play, Day Three promises even more drama. Every point now matters, every board has a story to tell, and the battle across the 64 squares is only just beginning.

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Outside the Orchid Hotel in Lekki, Lagos, the familiar Lagos traffic held sway, horns blaring, engines revving, and people moving with urgency. But once inside the hotel gallery, it was a different atmosphere entirely. The noise gave way to calm, and guests were welcomed by striking, almost life‑size chess pieces arranged with elegance, setting the mood for an evening dedicated to the game of kings.

It was the opening ceremony of the 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships.

As guests filed into the hall, some settled quickly into their seats while others took time to admire the décor and exchange greetings. There was a quiet excitement in the room, the kind that comes when everyone knows they are about to witness something important. Slowly, the hall filled up, and the ceremony came alive.

The event was anchored by Chukwuma “Happivibe” Ezeh, who guided proceedings with ease and warmth. The ceremony officially began with an opening address by Mr Olakunle Kasumu, President of the Orchid‑Lekki Chess Club. He thanked the guests for honouring the invitation and acknowledged the collective effort behind the championship. He also shared a brief story about the Orchid-Lekki Chess Club, the host of the tournament, describing the seven-day event as a culmination of years of dedication and passion for the growth of chess in Nigeria.

Mr Kasumu then invited the special guests of honour to take their seats at the high table. Present were Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigerian Chess Federation; Mr Joshua Odega, Managing Director of Orchid Hotel; Mr Lekan Adeyemi, Vice President of FIDE, the world chess governing body; Alhaji Dr Bode Durotoye, Chief Arbiter of the championship; and International Arbiter Amisu Omotayo Hikmot, who also serves as President of the Nigerian Chess Arbiters Association.

From the light conversations and shared laughter among the dignitaries, it was clear that the evening would be a blend of serious competition and genuine camaraderie, a true celebration of chess and those who keep the game alive in the country.

The defending champions were then reintroduced to the audience: Ferdinand Tersee Nyuima, the Open/Men’s Champion, and Ofowino Toritsemuwa, the Women’s category. Though both wore bright smiles, there was no mistaking the focus in their expressions – champions ready to defend their crowns.

Prince Adeyinka Adewole was later invited to address the gathering. With soft music playing in the background, he spoke about the steady rise of chess in Nigeria, highlighting the increasing participation, improved organisation, and growing opportunities for players nationwide. His remarks set the tone for what promises to be an exciting week of high‑level chess.

The evening was further enriched by a poetic performance from Ire Belles, whose words captured the beauty, struggle, and quiet intensity of the game, earning warm applause from the audience.

One of the standout moments of the night was a miniature exhibition game between Prince Adeyinka Adewole and International Arbiter Amisu Omotayo Hikmot. What was initially announced as a demonstration quickly turned into a competitive event. Prince Adeyinka pressed early with quick development and attacking ideas, but Mrs Hikmot responded confidently with a solid Stonewall setup, soaking up pressure and launching sharp counterattacks. In the end, she offered a draw, which was accepted with smiles, handshakes, and applause from the crowd.

The ceremony reached its symbolic peak when Mr Lekan Adeyemi, Vice President of FIDE, approached the ceremonial board. With cameras flashing, he pushed the white king’s pawn two squares, the classic 1.e4, officially declaring the championship open. In that moment, the journey of another national chess battle had truly begun.

Guests were then treated to a buffet‑style dinner, led by the special guests, rounding off the evening on a relaxed and celebratory note.

By the time the ceremony came to an end, one message was clear: chess in Nigeria continues to grow, not just as a competitive sport, but as a powerful tool for unity. Across age, background, and belief, the 64 squares once again brought minds together, and the 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships were officially underway.

The post The 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships Officially Begin appeared first on Bruvschess.

The post The 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships Officially Begin appeared first on Bruvschess.

The emergence of Senator Dankwambo came as a surprise to many players and stakeholders who had expected a more familiar leadership to continue steering the Federation after a successful and widely praised tenure. The outgoing board had earned commendation for its achievements in organizational growth, tournament consistency, and increased visibility of Nigerian chess both locally and internationally.

However, while the change was unexpected and, in some quarters, somewhat controversial, the general tone within the community has not been hostile. Instead, players and enthusiasts have expressed measured optimism and curious anticipation about how this new administration will build on the established legacy and set new benchmarks for growth.

It’s a surprise, yes, but everyone’s watching and hoping this move brings more structure and sponsorship to the game.

Dankwambo’s Vision: Leadership, Legacy, and Expansion

In his official statement, Senator Dankwambo expressed profound gratitude to members, delegates, and supporters for their confidence and pledged to uphold transparency, professionalism, and inclusivity.

“This moment represents not only a personal honour but a collective milestone for Nigerian chess — a new chapter defined by visionary leadership, professionalism, and exemplary sportsmanship,” he said.

He commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) for their transparent electoral process and paid tribute to the outgoing President, DIG Sani Mohammed (Rtd), and Vice President Adeyinka Adewole, whose dedication and stewardship, he noted, had strengthened the Federation’s reputation.

Senator Dankwambo outlined a vision focused on expanding grassroots participation, developing young talent, and deepening corporate partnerships to enhance Nigeria’s presence in the global chess community. He also pledged strict adherence to the National Sports Commission Code of Governance 2025, describing it as central to ensuring accountability and institutional integrity.

A New Board, Familiar Energy

The newly inaugurated NCF board combines continuity and new direction, featuring both returning and new figures across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and partner institutions:

• President: Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo
• Vice President / South West Representative: Prince Adeyinka Adewole
• South South Representative: FM Eugene Uwana
• South East Representative: Dr. Donald Onyekwere
• North Central Representative: IA Ehidiamhen Akhiwu
• North West Representative: Abdullahi Muhammed
• North East Representative: DIG (Rtd) Sani Mohammed, mni
• Sponsor/Philanthropist: Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo
• International Representative: IA Olalekan Adeyemi
• NAPHER Representative: Alhaji (Dr.) Bode Alli Durotoye
• NAWIS Representative: Mrs. Akitoye Mabel
• Technical Representative: IA Omotayo Hikmot Amisu
• Players’ Representative: IM Bunmi Olape
• Military/Paramilitary Representative: Mohammed Saleh (EFCC)
• AFFAN Representative: Mrs. Toun Engore

Reactions from the Chess Community

Across Nigeria’s chess scene, the election outcome has been a major topic of discussion. While opinions differ, most stakeholders agree on one thing: the next four years will test the Federation’s ability to sustain progress and deepen its impact.

With expectations high and scrutiny inevitable, the Federation now faces the challenge of translating its promises into progress. Whether this surprise move becomes a masterstroke will depend on how the new board navigates its next few moves, steady, strategic, and in full respect of the legacy it inherits.

The full statement from the newly elected NCF President is published below for readers’ reference.

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