Kwara’s Chess Future Bright as Godspower Triumphs, Nagode Plans Schools Tourney

 Kwara’s Chess Future Bright as Godspower Triumphs, Nagode Plans Schools Tourney

The 2nd edition of the ABN Kwara Rapid and Re-Modest Chess Tournament has concluded in Ilorin with Godspower Mayserel emerging as the overall champion. He dethroned Mubarak Bello, the winner of the maiden edition, in a keenly contested competition featuring 15 skilled participants.

The tournament, proudly sponsored by Alhaji Ahmed Bolaji Nagode, is aimed at promoting the culture of chess across Kwara State and sustaining interest in the game among both male and female players.

Speaking at the closing ceremony on Monday at the conference room of the Kwara Football Academy (KFA), George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, Alhaji Bolaji Nagode reiterated his commitment to using the platform to deepen the chess culture within the Ilorin Emirate and beyond.

He emphasized the long-term plan to introduce chess in secondary schools across the Emirate in honour of the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Dr IbrahimSuluGambari, noting that the game is not only intellectually stimulating but also a valuable tool for professional and personal development.

“I’m planning to organize the Ilorin Emirate Chess Tournament for selected secondary schools. I also have some boards to donate. This initiative will help instill the culture of the game at a young age and encourage students to consider it as a potential career path,” Nagode said.

Nagode, himself a former university chess player, expressed optimism about nurturing the next generation of chess champions from the grassroots.

In his remarks, International Arbiter Dr. Bode Durotoye lauded the sponsor for his vision and generosity, praising the initiative for bringing the game closer to the community and encouraging young talents to emerge.

“With Alhaji Nagode’s unwavering support, chess is gradually gaining a strong foothold at the grassroots in Kwara,” Dr. Durotoye noted.

The well-organized tournament was jointly anchored by Dr. Bode Durotoye and FIDE Arbiter Adeoti Oladapo Bolaji, and featured a presentation of cash prizes and a trophy to the winner and other standout performers.