Lekki Classics Targets Next Generation With New U-12 Scrabble Category

Posted : 10 September 2026

The Lekki Scrabble Club is looking beyond the current generation of champions with the introduction of a dedicated Under-12 category at the 2026 Lekki Scrabble Classics in Lagos.

The new section is designed to give children an early taste of competitive Scrabble while providing a platform where promising players can develop their skills, confidence and understanding of the game.

According to the organisers, the initiative is a natural extension of the club’s school Scrabble programme and represents a deliberate effort to strengthen the talent pipeline for the mind sport in Nigeria.

President of the Lekki Scrabble Club, Samuel Anikoh, said exposing children to competitive Scrabble at an early age could help identify players with the potential to become future national and international champions.

He cited defending Classics champion Abdulmumeen Jimoh as an example of the benefits of starting the game early, noting that the player had grown into one of the dominant figures in Nigerian Scrabble.

“Jimoh is evidence that starting early does have its benefits, which is why the Club is introducing a children’s section at the 2026 Lekki Classics event,” Anikoh said.

He added that the initiative would build on the club’s existing efforts in schools by allowing young players to make the transition from learning the game to experiencing the demands of serious competition.

“This is building on our school Scrabble programme and providing a platform for our young, under-12 players, a chance to begin to experience competitive Scrabble,” he said.

Beyond competition, the organisers expect the U-12 category to expose the children to mentoring and the discipline, concentration and strategic thinking required to excel in Scrabble.

The initiative will also allow the youngsters to interact with more experienced players and gain valuable exposure that could accelerate their development.

The 2026 Lekki Scrabble Classics, which has a top prize of 1,000 US dollars, is scheduled to hold from Sept. 26 to 27 at the Peninsula Hotel in Lagos.

With the introduction of the U-12 category, the tournament is set to combine elite competition with a deliberate investment in the next generation of Nigerian Scrabble players.

Lekki Classics Targets Next Generation With New U-12 Scrabble Category

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