The Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) has hailed Abuja’s successful staging of the FIDE World Amateur Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships as a significant milestone for Nigerian sport and the growth of chess across Africa.
Abuja stages Africa’s first edition
The tournament took place from 1 to 8 August at the Bolton White Hotel in Abuja. It was the first time the championships had been held on African soil, with FIDE confirming that amateur competitors from across the world took part in the Rapid and Blitz events.
NCF president Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo expressed gratitude to FIDE for awarding Abuja the hosting rights. He said the decision demonstrated global trust in Nigeria’s ability to organise major competitions and provide suitable sports facilities.
Historic Nigerian success in the Rapid Open
Nigeria celebrated an unprecedented one-two-three finish in the Rapid Open. Fourteen-year-old Ekunke Odey Goodness claimed the title after collecting 9 points across 11 rounds, while Eugene Unwana secured second place and Bomo Kigigha completed the all-Nigerian podium in third.
Nigerian competitors also took every top position in the U-23 Women’s and U-20 Women’s sections. Indian players, meanwhile, led the U-17 categories and the U-20 Open competition.
Officials praise organisation and wider sports progress
At the closing ceremony, National Sports Commission chairman Shehu Dikko praised the NCF for staging a championship of world-class standard. He also highlighted the joint work carried out by the federation, FIDE and the African Chess Confederation.
Dankwambo acknowledged the backing provided by the NSC and commended Nigerian athletes for their showing at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. He said the country’s sporting environment was entering a new phase of energy and progress.
“Nigeria’s sports sector is changing quickly and in a positive direction,” Dankwambo said. “Better athlete welfare, stronger discipline, fresh ideas and purposeful leadership are reshaping the story of Nigerian sport.”
He further recognised Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and his administration for supporting the championship. Dankwambo urged deeper cooperation with state governments and businesses to broaden chess development throughout Nigeria.
Age-group winners
- U-17 Open: Saket Kumar of India — 6½ points
- U-20 Open: AIM Shejal Sahil Sanjay of India — 9 points
- U-20 Women: Omoruyi Sandra Osarugue of Nigeria — 5½ points
- U-23 Open: Efemuai Odafe Benedict of Nigeria — 8 points
- U-23 Women: WFM Asanga Nsisong of Nigeria — 3 points
