Ecobank Partners with Nigeria Chess Federation to Empower Youth Through the 2026 National Schools Team Chess Championship

Ecobank Partners with Nigeria Chess Federation for 2026 National Schools Team Chess Championship

Lagos, Nigeria – Ecobank is reaffirming its commitment to youth development by partnering with the Nigeria Chess Federation to host the highly anticipated 2026 Ecobank National Schools Team Chess Championship. Scheduled for May 7-8 in Lagos, this championship promises to be a significant event for young chess enthusiasts across the nation.

At a news conference held on Wednesday, Mr. Adekunle Adewuyi, Head of Education, Faith-Based and Social Services at Ecobank, emphasized the initiative’s alignment with the bank’s dedication to education and youth empowerment. “Chess is more than just a game; it cultivates critical thinking, discipline, and problem-solving skills among young people,” he stated.

The championship aims to prepare students not only for competitive play but also for future leadership roles. “Through this initiative, Ecobank is helping to equip young Nigerians for both competition and the responsibilities they will face in the workplace,” Adewuyi added.

Participation in the championship has seen remarkable growth, with numbers rising from 1,210 students in 2024 to 1,830 students from 360 schools in 2025. Adewuyi anticipates even greater participation this year, attributing the surge to increasing interest from schools and the support of partners like Schoolmate Nigeria.

Mr. Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, confirmed that the federation will oversee the technical aspects of the competition, while Ecobank remains the lead sponsor. “We have successfully managed the technical components of this championship for the past three years, and we are fully prepared for this edition,” he said.

The 2026 championship is expected to feature around 150 primary and 150 secondary schools, with previous winners having represented Nigeria in international competitions. Adewole highlighted the potential for increased support to unlock more opportunities for young talents, noting that chess can also create employment avenues. “Skilled players can work as instructors or serve as tournament officials,” he explained.

Mr. Ambesh Kumar, Marketing Head of Schoolmate Nigeria, echoed the importance of the initiative, stating that it supports youth development through education and sport. “Chess helps children build discipline, focus, and strategic thinking, aligning perfectly with our efforts to nurture future champions,” he remarked.

As the championship continues to grow, it serves as a vital platform for discovering young talents across Nigeria, fostering confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills among participants. With Ecobank’s support, the future looks bright for young chess players in the country.