Yola IDP Girl Wins Silver Medal At US Chess Tournament

An internally displaced person (IDP) at Malkohi camp in Yola, Mary Zira, has won a silver medal at the prestigious Chess and Community Tournament in the United States with a cash price of $100.

The 12-year-old Zira beat her colleague, Ivie Clement Urieto in Nigeria and was selected to travel to the US for the Chess and Community Programme.

Zira will now proceed to New York City for another major tournament.

She was trained by a dedicated chess coach and former beauty queen, Vivian Ibrahim.

She gained national attention after an outstanding performance at a championship in Malkohi IDP Camp, Yola, which was witnessed by a global chess champion, Tunde Onakoya.

Mary secured a scholarship to the prestigious American University of Nigeria Academy, transitioning from the challenging conditions of an IDP camp to an institution known for academic excellence.

“I don’t even know what to say. Who would have thought that a child born in an IDP camp would gain global recognition?” she asked.

Mary’s silver medal win underscores the impact of education and opportunity on young talents. Her success story is a testament to resilience, mentorship and the power of chess to change lives.