Ecobank Nigeria in collaboration with Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) is organizing the National Schools’ Team Chess Championship with more than 200 schools already registered for the competition scheduled to kick off on Friday 24th at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC) on Victoria Lagos.
The championship is opened for students from primary to tertiary education level with prizes of over N15 million to be won.
Speaking on the championship, Vice President of Nigeria Chess Federation, Prince Adeyinka Adewole said he is impressed by the excitement and enthusiasm the competition has generated from the target groups and members of the public, stating that every arrangement had been put in place to make the competition a huge success.
“We are impressed with the level of interest schools are showing towards the competition judging by the registration so far. As we speak, over 200 schools which cut across primary, secondary, and tertiary schools from all over the country have registered for the competition. It’s going to be an exciting time. All arrangements are in place to make the competition exciting and fulfilling for the competitors and indeed all stakeholders. We encourage Nigerians from all walks of life, especially sports enthusiasts to attend the event and support teams of their choice as a way of encouraging young people to aim for the best,” he stated.
He argued that Chess is more than just a pastime, but an educational tool that enhances critical thinking, concentration and problem-solving skills.
He enjoined interested institutions that are yet to register to do so by sending an email to: nationalschoolsteamchess@gmail.com.
Registration is absolutely free. “Take advantage of this opportunity to participate in the prestigious event. It will provide an enriching experience for the participating students, apart from the prizes to be won, there is also an opportunity to represent Nigeria at the world chess competition,” he added.