By Victor Okoye
Abuja, Nigeria – In a spirited celebration of strategy, discipline, and youthful brilliance, over 250 children converged in Abuja on Saturday to participate in the Evolve 2.0 Children’s Chess Championship, a tournament designed to deepen grassroots development and groom future grandmasters in Nigeria.
The event, held under the vibrant atmosphere of healthy competition and learning, drew pupils from various schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Participants competed in four categories: Under-8, Under-10, Under-13, and Under-16.
Organised by the Royals Chess Academy, the championship is part of a growing initiative to use chess as a tool for cognitive development, emotional intelligence, and academic excellence among children.
“Chess Teaches Life Skills” – Organiser
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Johnson Enejison, Proprietor of Royals Chess Academy and convener of the tournament, emphasized that the objective went far beyond the chessboard.
“The goal is to sharpen critical thinking, nurture discipline, and build resilience in children,” Enejison said.
“Chess itself has countless benefits. It improves memory, teaches patience, and helps children develop problem-solving skills that they can apply in academics and life.”
According to him, tournaments like Evolve 2.0 are designed not just to reward winners, but to inspire a lifelong passion for learning and strategic thinking.
Young Voices, Big Dreams
On the sidelines of the event, young participants shared their experiences and the personal impact of the game.
Somtochukwu Okolo, said chess had significantly improved his performance in school.
“It makes me more intelligent and helps me do better in exams. I especially like how it has improved my math skills,” he said with a smile.
Jemimah Ugwuocha, described chess as a game that empowers young minds.
“It helps you think faster and smarter. It’s not just a game—it’s like preparing for real life because you always have to think ahead.”
For Jaydeen Arosanyin, the game enhances his critical thinking, while Osikwe Grace simply expressed her love for the game, calling it “interesting and fun.”
A Game That Shapes Character
Parents and coaches at the event also echoed similar sentiments, noting that the long-term benefits of chess go well beyond trophies and medals.
Mrs. Taiye Arosanyin, mother of one of the participants, said she encouraged her son’s interest in the game after noticing positive behavioral changes.
“We chose chess because it helped our child stay focused and disciplined. It keeps his mind active and teaches patience, which is very important at this age.”
Chess coach Uba Efe highlighted the joy and challenge of mentoring young players.
“Working with kids is always an adventure. Sometimes they get distracted or playful, but the joy comes from watching them grow—seeing their unique personalities come alive as they compete and learn from one another.”
A Future for Chess in Nigeria
The Evolve 2.0 Children’s Chess Championship concluded with recognition for outstanding performances in each category, but more importantly, it reinforced the growing awareness of chess as a vital tool in early childhood development.
With such enthusiastic participation and increasing support from parents, schools, and sponsors, initiatives like this are helping to lay the foundation for a new generation of Nigerian chess masters—one strategic move at a time.
NAN also reports that Goodluck Agbara emerged as the winner of the Under 16 category, while Jeremiah Afolabi finished as runner-up.
Charles Oro emerged winner of the Under 13 category, while Abasino Ibok finished as runner-up.
In the Under 10 category, Pedro Odogwu clinched the top position, while Odidiong Ibok finished as runner-up in the category.
In the Under 8 category, Ojeaga Olumhense smiled home with the winner’s prize, while Idara Esther Ibok settled for the runner-up position.
Full list of all the winners in the different categories:
EVOLVE Children Chess Championship 2.0 [2025]
Positions and Cash Prizes.
Under 16 Category Winners:
First position: Goodluck Agbara -N30,000
Second position: Afolabi Olutoye Jeremiah – N15,000
Third position: Emereole Lawrence – N15,000
Fourth: Iwuagwu Nkiruka – N15,000
Fifth: Orji Chinazam – N15,000
Sixth : Iyiola Khalid – N15,000
Best Female Player : Ihewulezi Chisom – N10,000
Under 13 Category Winners.
First position: Charles Oro -N25,000
Second position: Ibok Abasiono – N15,667:
Third position: Afolabi Daniel Olumide – N15,667:
Fourth position : Mba Uchechi Prosper – N15,667:
Best Female Player: Abiodun Kamila- N10,000:
Under 10 Category Winners
First position: Pedro Odogwu – N20,000:
Second position: Chukwurah King David – N7,166:
Third position: Odidiong Ibok – N7,166:
Fouth: Kamolideen Muhammad -Awwal – N7,166:
Fifth position – Ajayi Rereoluwasimi – N7,166:
Sixth position – Rhitoh Joseph – N7,166:
Best Female Player: Berecharh Barnabas – N10,000:
Under 8 Category Winners
First position: Ojeaga Olumhense – N15,000:
Second position: Ibok Idara – N11,000:
Third position: Osemudiamhen Osose – N11,000:
Fouth: Uduaka Victor – N8000:
Best Female Player: Princess Ukpokowo Olumhense – N10,000:
Youngest Chess Talent: Munachi Jason Emmanuel – N10,000.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
