Over 750 pupils from 150 schools participated in the 2026 ChessMasters Tournament, sponsored by FirstBank of Nigeria, held over the weekend at Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. The event showcased the growing scale of the initiative, which uses chess as a tool to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills among young learners.
Indian Language School Emerges Victorious
Indian Language School claimed the top prize in the 2026 edition. Organizers noted that the tournament is evolving into a broader movement aimed at transforming how children learn, think, and grow.
FirstBank's Commitment to Youth Development
Olayinka Ijabiyi, First Bank's Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, stated that the sponsorship aligns with the bank's strategy of supporting talent development and social impact. He said, "Our sponsorship of ChessMasters 2026 reflects our commitment to building talents and communities, driving inclusion, and deepening engagement through our First@Sports initiative, a platform that celebrates talent and promotes social impact through sports." Ijabiyi added that chess has strong potential as a developmental tool for young people, describing the tournament as a launchpad for a pan-African movement leveraging chess for education, empowerment, and leadership development.
Partnerships and Prize Pool
The tournament was organized by KEY Academy in partnership with Eko Hotels and Suites, featuring a prize pool of N10 million. This reflects increased stakeholder commitment to educational platforms that combine learning with competition.
Remarks from Organizers
Damilola Okonkwo, Founder of KEY Academy, said the initiative is designed to extend learning beyond the classroom and equip children with relevant skills. "We are so happy to have 150 schools across Lagos here today. When you are playing the game of chess, every single move you make is important. You are thinking, deciding and taking action, and that is the focus this year," she said. Caline Chagoury Moudaber, Director of Eko Hotels and Suites, noted that participation increased from 500 pupils last year to 750 this year, highlighting the initiative's growing relevance. "Last year, 500 students participated; this year, 750. So the movement is growing, and it belongs to you," she said, commending sponsors like FirstBank.
National Significance
Adewole Adeyinka, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, described the competition as a fast-growing platform with national significance.
