Chess stars converge on Ilorin for ABN chess tourney

No fewer than 40 professional and amateur players are set to participate in the Ahmed Bolaji Nagode (ABN) Rapid Chess Tournament billed for Nov. 30, in Ilorin, Kwara.

The Technical Director, Nigeria Chess Federation and Vice Chairman, Kwara Chess Association, Ali Durotoye, disclosed this to newsmen in Ilorin on Sunday.

He said the event was aimed at promoting chess culture and nurturing local talent in the state.

Durotoye said that the tournament is sponsored by Alhaji Ahmed Bolaji Nagode who is also a chess enthusiast and veteran player.

He recalled that Nagode played for the University of Ilorin during his Masters degree programme in 1989 and also participated in the famous Hamzat Ibrahim NEPA Chess competition, wining laurels in the process.

“This is his own contribution to the development of chess in Ilorin and Kwara State.

“Among the participants are notable players, including the Nigeria’s reigning National Open Chess Champion and also a superintendent with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Adeoti Oladapo Bolaji.

“Others include Nigeria’s North Central women’s Champion, Merydiyya Abdulsalam, Emmanuel Anuebunwa and Ojo David.

“The event will follow a rapid chess format, requiring quick decision-making and strategic thinking, with participants from diverse categories, including male, female, and junior players” Durotoye said.

The organisers emphasised that the tournament seeks to foster inclusivity, with prizes for the best female junior player, to encourage fearless competition among young and female players.

Additionally, a national arbiter certification seminar will precede the tournament from between Nov. 26 and Nov. 30, equipping chess officials with the skills to manage future tournaments effectively.

Durotoye noted that the Nigeria Chess Federation and Kwara Chess Association are supporting the tournament.