Excitement Builds for the 2026 Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championship in Lagos

Excitement Builds for the 2026 Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championship

Lagos, Nigeria – All systems are go for the highly anticipated 2026 Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championship, set to take place on May 7 and 8 at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos. Organized in partnership with the Nigeria Chess Federation, this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever.

At the official unveiling, Adekunle Adewuyi, Segment Head of Education, Faith-Based, and Social Services at Ecobank Nigeria, expressed the bank’s unwavering commitment to making this championship a resounding success. “The competition continues to grow rapidly, attracting widespread participation from students across the country,” he stated, highlighting the event’s evolution into an award-winning platform for intellectual development.

The previous edition saw over 2,500 students from more than 450 schools participate, and organizers are optimistic about surpassing those numbers this year. “We are excited to nurture the next generation of chess talents,” Adewuyi added.

Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, also praised Ecobank for its steadfast support. He noted the steady improvement in organization and participation since the inaugural edition and assured stakeholders of an even more impactful event in 2026.

The championship will feature a team format, kicking off with the Primary Schools category on May 7, followed by the Secondary Schools category on May 8. Participants will engage in a six-round rapid format, ensuring a fast-paced and thrilling competition.

With a prize pool exceeding ₦20 million, along with trophies, medals, and certificates, the championship aims to reward excellence while encouraging broader participation. The initiative goes beyond competition; it seeks to foster critical thinking, discipline, and strategic skills among young people. Notably, inclusive programs will also cater to schools for the blind, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to shine.

As the 2026 edition approaches, it is poised to further solidify its status as one of Nigeria’s premier school chess events, inspiring students and shaping future champions. The countdown has begun, and the chess community is eagerly awaiting what promises to be an unforgettable experience.