Students from across Nigeria are gearing up for a battle of strategy and intellect as Lagos hosts the third edition of the Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championship on May 7.
The highly anticipated tournament will take place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, drawing primary and secondary school teams from across the country to compete for honours and a share of the N20 million prize pool sponsored by Ecobank.
Organisers say the championship is strictly for school students, with substantial rewards awaiting top performers. Winners in the primary school category will receive N2 million, while secondary school champions will take home N2.5 million.
Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, Adeyinka Adewale, confirmed the event’s scope, noting its focus on nurturing young talents through competitive play.
Ecobank’s Head of Educational and Social Services, Kunle Adewoyi, emphasized the bank’s commitment to youth development through chess, describing the initiative as part of its broader human capital strategy.
According to Adewoyi, chess plays a crucial role in sharpening critical thinking and problem-solving skills among young people. He also expressed concern that Nigeria is yet to produce a Chess Grand Master, unlike smaller nations such as Uganda.
He challenged participating students to seize the opportunity provided by the championship to rise through the ranks and achieve global recognition in the sport.
In a further incentive, Adewoyi revealed that standout participants could be offered internship opportunities at Ecobank, providing exposure to professional environments and enhancing their cognitive and analytical skills.
Also lending support to the initiative is Schoolmate, a co-sponsor of the event. Its Head of Marketing, Ambesh Kumar, highlighted the company’s commitment to quality education and youth empowerment.
Kumar noted that Schoolmate’s involvement aligns with its mission to support learning initiatives, adding that the championship serves as a platform to give back to society while fostering intellectual growth among Nigerian students.
With high stakes, national participation, and a focus on future excellence, the championship promises not only competition but a pathway to developing Nigeria’s next generation of strategic thinkers.
