Nigeria Youth Chess Team Impresses at 2025 Africa Youth Championship

T The National Sports Commission (NSC) has praised Nigeria’s youth chess team for their outstanding performance at the 2025 Africa Youth Chess Championships held in Harare, Zimbabwe. The commendation followed what the Commission described as a strong and disciplined showing by the young athletes against elite competitors from across the continent.

The Nigerian contingent featured Deborah Quickpen, Michelle Nwankwo, Jason Nwankwo, Zita Agusionu, Olakitan Elegbede, and Adeola Elegbede, who competed in various age categories during the championship. Their performances were marked by tactical awareness, composure, and consistency, underscoring the growing strength of grassroots chess development in Nigeria.

In a statement, the NSC attributed the team’s success to effective preparation and collective effort, acknowledging the vital roles played by the coaching crew, parents, and support teams in ensuring the players were well-equipped for the continental challenge.

The Commission also commended the President of the Chess Federation of Nigeria, Ibrahim Dankwambo, and members of the federation’s board for their sustained commitment to discovering and nurturing young chess talents while expanding the sport nationwide.

According to the NSC, the impressive outing by the youth team further highlights chess as a valuable platform for youth development and for projecting Nigeria positively on the international stage.