Abuja: No fewer than 250 young chess enthusiasts converged on Abuja on Saturday for the Evolve 2.0 Children’s Chess Championship. The event, aimed at deepening grassroots sports development and grooming future grandmasters, was organised by the Royals Chess Academy. Participants drawn from schools across the FCT competed in four age-based categories: Under-8, Under-10, Under-13, and Under-16.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Johnson Enejison, Proprietor of Royals Chess Academy and convener of the championship, stated that the competition was designed not only to discover young talent but also to instil essential life skills in children. He emphasized that chess improves critical thinking, builds resilience, and promotes discipline and focus from an early age.
On the sidelines, young players expressed excitement about the game’s benefits. A 12-year-old participant, Somtochukwu Okolo, mentioned that chess had improved his academic performance, especially in mathematics. Ms. Jemimah Ugwuocha and other participants like Jaydeen Arosanyin and Osikwe Grace highlighted that the game encourages strategic planning and critical thinking, making learning enjoyable.
Parents and coaches also praised the sport’s impact beyond the competition. Mrs. Taiye Arosanyin noted that introducing her son to chess had enhanced his focus and attention to studies. Chess coach Mr. Uba Efe acknowledged the challenges of teaching the game but emphasized the joy of seeing children develop problem-solving skills and confidence.
With strong performances across all categories, the tournament underscored chess as a growing tool for childhood development. Winners emerged across all four categories. In the Under-16 category, Goodluck Agbara claimed first place, receiving N30,000, while others like Afolabi Olutoye Jeremiah and Emereole Lawrence took subsequent positions with monetary prizes. The Best Female Player award went to Ihewulezi Chisom, who received N10,000.
In the Under-13 category, Charles Oro emerged champion with N25,000. Abasiono Ibok and Afolabi Daniel Olumide secured the next positions, while Abiodun Kamila won the Best Female Player award. The Under-10 category saw Pedro Odogwu take first place, and in the Under-8 category, Ojeaga Olumhense emerged victorious. Special recognition was given to Munachi Jason Emmanuel, the youngest chess talent, who received N10,000 for his achievement.
