Edo launches maiden Chess League to nurture future champions

Posted : 16 June 2026

Edo State is set to take a significant step in the development of chess with the launch of the maiden edition of the Edo State Chess League Championship, scheduled to begin on June 26, 2026, at the National Gymnasium Sports Complex, Limit Road, Benin City.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Brainybrain Chess Foundation in collaboration with Aidia Sports, is designed to provide a platform for young players to develop their skills, gain competitive experience, and showcase their talents.

Speaking during a media parley with sports journalists in Benin City, the President of Aidia Sports and Vice President of the Brainybrain Chess Foundation, Comrade Aituari Igbinedion, described the championship as a landmark achievement for chess development in the state.

According to him, the competition represents the first organized chess league of its kind in Edo State and reflects the commitment of stakeholders to creating opportunities for young athletes.

He noted that the organisers have put all necessary structures in place to ensure a successful championship, adding that the event aligns with ongoing efforts to promote sports development and capacity building among youths.

Igbinedion stressed that Edo State is blessed with abundant sporting talent, particularly among school children, and emphasized the need for platforms that can help them discover and maximize their potential.

He explained that chess remains one of the most intellectually demanding sports, requiring concentration, strategy, and critical thinking—qualities that can positively impact the development of young people.

The championship, he said, is aimed at identifying promising talents at an early stage, exposing them to competitive chess, and providing a pathway for them to pursue successful careers in the game.

He expressed confidence that with sustained investment and proper mentorship, Edo State could soon become a leading force in Nigerian chess and produce players capable of excelling on national and international stages.

The Edo State Chess League Championship is open to schools across Edo State and its environs, with organisers expecting strong participation when the competition gets underway later this month in Benin City.

This maiden tournament establishes a pivotal framework for long-term athletic and intellectual growth within the region. By mobilizing schools and establishing a structured competitive environment, the organizers are creating sustainable pathways for the youth. The collaborative effort highlights a broader commitment to elevating the status of chess and cultivating the next generation of international masters.

Edo launches maiden Chess League to nurture future champions

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