
Ecobank Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigeria Chess Federation, has announced the 2026 National Schools' Team Chess Championship, an initiative set to gather over 2,000 students. The championship, scheduled for May at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre in Lagos, aims to bolster intellectual development and human capital. Head of Marketing and Corporate Communication at Ecobank Nigeria, Austen Osokpor, stated that chess is a powerful educational tool that builds problem-solving skills, discipline, and strategic thinking, and Ecobank is creating a platform that inspires young minds while promoting healthy competition and intellectual growth. The tournament, now in its third edition, has seen a significant increase in participation, from 1,210 students in 2024 to over 1,800 in 2025, with organizers expecting to break records this year. The 2026 edition will also include students from schools for the visually impaired, ensuring inclusivity. Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, Adeyinka Adewole, noted that the event is about nurturing future champions in life. Ecobank, alongside co-sponsor Schoolmate, has committed N20m in prizes for participating primary and secondary schools. NCF President Ibrahim Dankwambo leads the federation in using chess as a vehicle for national development, aiming to equip future leaders with the ability to navigate complex challenges.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.