ABN Chess Tournament boosts grassroots development in Kwara

Posted : 31 May 2026

Grassroots chess development received a major boost in Kwara State as the third edition of the Ahmed Bolaji Nagode (ABN) Chess Tournament concluded successfully in Ilorin, with renewed efforts aimed at nurturing young talents and expanding the game's reach across schools.

The tournament, held at the refurbished Pa G.B. Ladipo Indoor Sports Hall of the George Innih Stadium Complex, attracted 40 players who competed in both Rapid and Blitz categories, while also serving as a platform for talent identification and development.

The sponsor of the competition, Alhaji Ahmed Bolaji Nagode, reaffirmed his commitment to the growth of chess in the state by donating ten chess boards to selected secondary schools within the Ilorin Emirate.

According to Nagode, the initiative is designed to encourage chess participation among students and establish a strong foundation for future inter-school competitions across the state.

He disclosed that the donation programme would eventually be extended to other parts of Kwara State as part of a broader plan to promote chess at the grassroots level.

Nagode explained that his passion for the game, nurtured during his days as a student at the University of Ilorin and later as an employee of the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), inspired him to establish the tournament.

He recalled participating in several chess competitions sponsored by former NEPA Managing Director Hamza Ibrahim, where he achieved notable success as a player.

"Though I am no longer as active as I once was, supporting chess through this tournament is my way of giving back to a game that has contributed significantly to my personal development," he said.

The chess enthusiast also reflected on his experience at the recent Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, where he observed elite players and grandmasters compete at the highest level.

He noted that chess remains a powerful tool for developing critical thinking, discipline, and strategic decision-making, while expressing confidence that the game has the capacity to produce world-class talents from Nigeria.

Nagode urged participants to remain committed to improving their skills through regular practice, game analysis, and proper preparation, stressing that dedication remains the key to success in competitive chess.

The tournament featured players from different age groups, including junior and veteran competitors, creating an atmosphere of learning and healthy competition.

At the end of the event, outstanding performers were rewarded with trophies, cash prizes, and other gifts in recognition of their achievements.

Gilbert Kenneth emerged as champion in the Rapid category, while Anuebunwa Emmanuel claimed top honours in the Blitz event. Adeyemi Ayoyemi Wuraola was recognised as the Best Female Player, while several young players were also celebrated for their impressive performances.

The donated chess boards were formally handed over to the chess association for onward distribution to beneficiary schools, marking another step towards strengthening grassroots chess development in Kwara State.

The successful conclusion of the tournament and the strategic donation of equipment underscore a bright future for youth chess development in the region. By fostering local talent and equipping educational institutions, the initiative lays a sustainable groundwork for long-term athletic and intellectual growth. Organizers and stakeholders remain optimistic that these efforts will soon yield national and international champions from Kwara State.

ABN Chess Tournament boosts grassroots development in Kwara

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