Winners have been announced and awarded in the Evolve 2.0 Children’s Chess Championship organised by the Royals Chess Academy in Abuja.
The championship attracted over 250 young chess enthusiasts from schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), competing in four age-based categories comprising Under-8, Under-10, Under-13, and Under-16.
The event was targeted at deepening grassroots development of the sport and nurture future grandmasters.
Goodluck Agbara emerged as the overall winner in the Under-16 category, overcoming challenges from close rivals Afolabi Olutoye Jeremiah and Emereole Lawrence, who finished as first and second runners-up, respectively.
Iwuagwu Nkiruka, Orji Chinazam, and Iyiola Khalid secured fourth, fifth, and sixth places, while the prize for the overall best female player went to Ihewulezi Chisom.
In the Under-13 category, Charles Oro was recognised as the best performer, with Abasiono Afolabi, Daniel Olumide, and Mba Uchechi Prosper finishing in second, third, and fourth places, respectively.
Pedro Odogwu claimed the best prize in the Under-10 category, defeating Chukwurah King David, Odidiong Ibok, and Kamolideen Muhammad-Awwal, who finished in second, third, and fourth positions, respectively.
Johnson Enejison, Proprietor of the Royals Chess Academy and Convener of the championship, stated that the competition aims not only to foster young talent but also to instil critical life skills in children.
“Chess improves critical thinking, builds resilience, and promotes discipline and focus in children from an early age,” Enejison remarked.
On the sidelines of the tournament, young players expressed their enthusiasm for the game and its benefits. Twelve-year-old Somtochukwu Okolo noted that chess had enhanced his academic performance, particularly in mathematics.
“It makes me more intelligent and helps me do well in my exams,” he said.
Jemimah Ugwuocha described chess as a game for young minds, emphasising that it teaches players to plan ahead and think strategically.
Similarly, Jaydeen Arosanyin and Osikwe Grace highlighted the game’s ability to foster critical thinking and make learning enjoyable.
For many parents and coaches, the value of chess extends far beyond the trophies. They praised the game for instilling discipline and psychological strength in children.
Uba Efe, a chess coach, remarked that teaching children the game is both challenging and rewarding. “Sometimes they get distracted, but the joy lies in watching them develop problem-solving skills and confidence while engaging with their peers,” he said.
With enthusiastic participation and commendable performances across all categories, the tournament underscored the growing impact of chess as a tool for childhood development.
