YOUNG MINDS SHINE AT EVOLVE 2.0 CHILDREN’S CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP IN ABUJA

By: Gyang Dakwo

Over 250 young chess players filled the air with excitement in Abuja on Saturday August 9, as they battled for glory at the Evolve 2.0 Children’s Chess Championship, organised by the Royals Chess Academy to grow grassroots sports and groom future grandmasters.

Drawn from schools across the FCT, the children faced off in four age categories: Under-8, Under-10, Under-13, and Under-16. Convener of the event, Johnson Enejison, said it was not just about finding champions but also about shaping young minds with critical thinking, discipline, and focus.

For many players, the lessons went beyond the chessboard. Twelve-year-old Somtochukwu Okolo said the game had boosted his mathematics skills, while Jemimah Ugwuocha described it as a mental workout that teaches strategy and planning. Jaydeen Arosanyin and Osikwe Grace added that chess sharpens the brain and makes learning fun.

Parents and coaches could not agree more. Taiye Arosanyin said her son had become more focused in school since picking up chess. Coach Uba Efe said “It can be tricky to keep young players from getting distracted, but the reward is watching them grow in problem-solving and confidence while bonding with peers.”

In the Under-16 showdown, Goodluck Agbara emerged champion. Afolabi Olutoye Jeremiah came second, while Emereole Lawrence was third. Fourth to sixth places went to Iwuagwu Nkiruka, Orji Chinazam, and Iyiola Khalid. Best Female Player went to Ihewulezi Chisom.

The Under-13 category was just as fierce. Charles Oro took the crown, followed by Abasiono Ibok in second place and Afolabi Daniel Olumide in third. Fourth place went to Mba Uchechi Prosper. Best Female Player went to Abiodun Kamila.

In the Under-10 ranks, Pedro Odogwu struck gold. The next spots went to Chukwurah King David, Odidiong Ibok, and Kamolideen Muhammad-Awwal, along with Ajayi Rereoluwasimi and Rhitoh Joseph in fifth and sixth places. Best Female Player was Berecharh Barnabas.

The Under-8 category saw Ojeaga Olumhense take top honours. Second place went to Ibok Idara, while Osemudiamhen Osose took third. Fourth place went to Uduaka Victor, and Best Female Player went to Princess Ukpokowo Olumhense.

Special applause went to the youngest star of the tournament, Munachi Jason Emmanuel.

The day ended with cheers, proving that chess is not only a game but a powerful tool for shaping bright young minds.