Nigerian Prodigy Goodness Ekunke Crowned Inaugural Champion of FIDE World Amateur Rapid Chess Championship 2026
14-Year-Old Goodness Ekunke Crowned Champion at Inaugural World Amateur Rapid Chess Championship
Abuja, Nigeria – In a stunning display of skill and strategy, 14-year-old Goodness Ekunke emerged as the inaugural champion of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) World Amateur Rapid Chess Championship 2026, held in Abuja. Ekunke, affectionately nicknamed ‘Boss Baby’ for his ability to outsmart older opponents, finished the tournament with an impressive score of 9 out of 11.
The championship, organized by FIDE in collaboration with the Nigeria Chess Federation, featured a competitive field of amateur players from around the globe. Ekunke’s remarkable performance not only secured him the title but also placed him ahead of seasoned compatriots Eugene Unwana and Bomo Kigigha, who both finished with 8½ points.
Born in Matogun, Ogun State, Ekunke’s chess journey began at the tender age of six, inspired by watching his father play. By the age of eight, he had already claimed the junior championship in Nigeria’s U-14 category. Reflecting on his early experiences, Ekunke shared, “My father taught me how to play chess once, and before he did, I always watched him play with his friend.”
The tournament was played over 11 rounds, with each match featuring a time control of 15 minutes plus a 10-second increment, adding to the excitement and intensity of the games.
Another standout story from the championship was the rise of 17-year-old Joseph Sambo, who showcased his potential as a formidable contender. Sambo’s campaign peaked in the eighth round when he defeated Ekunke, the tournament leader, after previously overcoming Ekunke’s coach, Kigigha. His impressive run continued with a victory over India’s Sahil Shejal in Round 9, positioning him as a serious threat for the title.
However, the final rounds proved challenging for Sambo. After a loss to Unwana in Round 10, his hopes of clinching the championship dwindled further with a defeat against Lanre Oluwalasinu in the final round. Ultimately, Sambo finished fourth with 7½ points, just half a point shy of the podium.
The championship attracted amateur players from across the globe, highlighting the growing popularity of chess in Nigeria and beyond. The opening ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries, including FIDE delegate Sergei Indeikin, Nigeria Chess Federation President Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, and FIDE Vice President and Chief Arbiter Olalekan Adeyemi.
As the dust settles on this historic tournament, Ekunke’s victory not only marks a significant milestone in his young career but also shines a spotlight on Nigeria’s emerging talent in the world of chess. With his strategic prowess and determination, the chess community eagerly anticipates what the future holds for this remarkable young champion.