Ecobank Nigeria, in collaboration with the Nigeria Chess Federation, has announced the 2026 edition of the National Schools’ Team Chess Championship, an initiative that will gather over 2,000 students from across the federation to compete for a record-breaking prize pool in a major move to bolster intellectual development and human capital.
The championship, according to a statement, which has become a cornerstone of youth sports and education in Nigeria, is scheduled to take place in May at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre in Lagos.
Commenting on the initiative, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communication at Ecobank Nigeria, Austen Osokpor, said, “Chess is a powerful educational tool that builds problem-solving skills, discipline, and strategic thinking. Through this championship, Ecobank is creating a platform that inspires young minds while promoting healthy competition and intellectual growth.”
Now in its third edition, the tournament has seen a massive surge in interest. Participation jumped from 1,210 students in 2024 to over 1,800 in 2025.
This year, organisers expect to shatter previous records as schools from every corner of the country prepare to send their best players for the six-round rapid-format event.
The 2026 edition also marks a significant milestone in inclusivity. In a move widely praised by education advocates, the federation confirmed that students from schools for the visually impaired will participate alongside their peers, ensuring the “transformative” power of chess is accessible to all.
The statement also quoted the Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, Adeyinka Adewole, as saying, ‘This event is about more than just winning; it’s about nurturing future champions in life. The inclusive nature of this year’s tournament, including students from schools for the visually impaired, reinforces our commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to excel.”
The stakes have never been higher for the participating primary and secondary schools. Ecobank, alongside new co-sponsor Schoolmate, has committed a total of N20m in prizes. This financial backing is designed to support education beyond the classroom and provide schools with resources to further develop their sporting and academic programmes.
The tournament structure will see primary school pupils take to the boards as scheduled. “Ecobank is dedicated to supporting youth empowerment and education. By partnering with brands like Schoolmate, we are strengthening a platform that identifies and celebrates emerging talent while fostering teamwork and mental agility among Nigeria’s youth,” Osokpor added.
Led by NCF President Ibrahim Dankwambo, the federation continues to use chess as a vehicle for national development. By moving the game from a niche hobby to a mainstream school activity, the NCF and Ecobank aim to equip the “leaders of tomorrow” with the ability to navigate complex challenges, both on the board and in the global economy.
As Lagos prepares to host the thousands of young grandmasters-in-the-making this May, the message is clear: the future of Nigeria’s human capital is being built one move at a time.
