The 2025 edition of the Ecobank National Schools’ Team Chess Championship has ended on a high note, cementing Lagos’ reputation as the rising chess capital of West Africa.
Over three days of competition, from June 26 to 28, 1,830 students from 366 schools gathered at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, to battle on the boards for a prize pool exceeding ₦20 million — the largest in the event’s history.
The tournament, backed by MTN Nigeria and co-organized by Chess in Slums Africa, showcased not only youthful talent and tactical brilliance but also a growing commitment to education, inclusivity, and youth empowerment.
Primary Schools Lead Opening Moves
Day one of the championship saw Jareb Private School emerge champions in the primary category, winning the top prize of ₦2 million. Chess in Slums Africa came second with ₦1.5 million, and Baptist Group of Schools clinched third place with ₦1 million.
Angela Babalola, Senior Manager at MTN Nigeria, described chess as more than a game:
“We see it as a platform for mind development and a way to position these future leaders to Go Make A Difference in their world.”
Tunde Onakoya Inspires with Presence and Purpose
Guinness World Record holder and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, served not only as a symbol of excellence but also as a hands-on mentor.
As an MTN Go M.A.D. (Make A Difference) ambassador, Onakoya stayed throughout the tournament, encouraging students, presenting awards, and modeling consistency.
“His presence reminds us of the power of visibility and love for the game,” said Prince Adeyinka Adewale, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation.
Secondary Schools Bring High Stakes and Higher Hopes
Platform School dominated the secondary school category, taking home ₦2.5 million, followed by Daysprings Secondary School with ₦2 million, and Shima Academy with ₦1.5 million.
Among the standout participants was Bethesda School for the Blind, whose participation marked a milestone in inclusive competition.
“They didn’t just show up, they won some games,” said Prince Adewale. “Their participation reminds us that true progress means everyone gets to play.”
Universities Lock Brains in the Final Round
In the tertiary division, University of Lagos (UNILAG) took the crown with ₦1 million. Nnamdi Azikiwe University earned second place and ₦500,000, while Obafemi Awolowo University placed third with ₦325,000.
Prize Pool Rises, So Does Impact
This year’s championship marked a significant increase in support, with the prize pool jumping from ₦16 million in 2024 to over ₦20 million.
The primary school category alone rose from ₦4.3 million to ₦6.4 million, while the secondary school pool increased to ₦9.2 million.
“The scale and impact have exceeded expectations,” said Prince Adewale. “This is the result of tireless work and long-term vision. From logistics to mentorship, every move has brought us closer to a national renaissance through chess.”
Chess as a Philosophy for Life
As the curtains fell, the mood was one of reflection and inspiration. Prince Adewale closed with a heartfelt message:
“Chess is not just about kings and queens, tactics and techniques. It is about life, decisions, patience, humility, and resilience. Let us raise thinkers. Because when we raise thinkers, we raise leaders.”
The 2025 Ecobank National Schools’ Team Chess Championship is more than a tournament — it is a growing movement. Powered by strategic partnerships with Ecobank, MTN Nigeria, and education-focused organizations, it is helping to equip a new generation of Nigerians — not just to play the game, but to win at life.
