Ibadan’s Young Minds Make Bold Statement at DCA 4.0

Posted : 02 March 2026

What began as a modest gathering of just 20 children has blossomed into one of Ibadan’s most inspiring youth sporting movements. At the fourth edition of the Divine Chess Academy (DCA) tournament, a remarkable 209 young players converged to test their tactical skills and mental resilience, a powerful sign that chess is rapidly becoming a force in the city’s youth development space.

Hosted by Divine Chess Academy, the tournament showcased more than just competition; it highlighted a growing cultural shift.

Participation has steadily climbed from 20 at inception, to 60, then 90, and now more than double that figure, a surge driven by schools, supportive parents, and private organizations embracing chess as an educational tool.

Proprietor Oluwatobi Bamidele described the turnout as overwhelming and deeply encouraging, noting that the academy’s vision is steadily gaining traction. According to him, the rapid growth proves that awareness around chess is expanding beyond hobby circles into mainstream youth engagement.

Rising Stars Across Categories

The tournament delivered intense battles across all age groups:

U-8 Category
Omotunde Feranmi
Adio Daniel
Adeniyi Adedunmoye

U-12 Category
Adaramola Michelle
Aderoju Testimony
Adeniyi Adedunmola

U-16 Category
Sambo Samson
Olayode Goriola
Ogunbayo Oluwafunminire

Top finishers earned cash prizes, while every participant received a certificate, a gesture reinforcing inclusion and encouragement alongside excellence.

Bigger Dreams on the Horizon

Beyond medals and recognition, DCA’s ambitions are expanding. Plans are already underway for an international classical chess tournament by mid-2026, aimed at preparing local talents for national and global competition.

Bamidele emphasized that several players have demonstrated the composure, creativity, and calculation required to compete beyond Nigeria’s borders. The academy’s long-term objective is clear: nurture world-class competitors from Ibadan’s grassroots.

More Than a Game

The event also sought to reshape perceptions. Organizers reiterated that chess is not gambling but a structured intellectual sport that develops patience, discipline, and strategic thinking qualities essential not just in sport, but in business and everyday life.

Parents were encouraged to enroll children in chess clubs and structured training, as the board often mirrors real-life decision-making and temperament.

With momentum building and participation soaring, Ibadan’s chess community is no longer emerging quietly; it is making a confident, calculated move toward a vibrant future.

Ibadan’s Young Minds Make Bold Statement at DCA 4.0

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics