Esdras Adebayo of Green Springs School claimed the top prize at the Chess and Life International School Teams Chess Championship held on Saturday at Bowine International School, Lagos.
Adebayo secured the gold medal after winning all five rounds in the fiercely contested event.
His schoolmates, Chinino Nwagwu and another teammate, completed the podium with silver and bronze medals, respectively, ensuring a clean sweep for Green Springs School.
In other categories, Iyinoluwa Idowu of Pottersland School won gold in the Focus Master category, while Olamide Oyesanya of Greaters School took silver. Ayomikun (Chalcedony School) and Otneil (Diamond School) shared bronze.
The Tiger category saw Muintaz Adelabu of Lead Forte School claim gold, Shawn Egbai of Alpha Tehillah silver, and Masterpiece Taiwo of Kiddie Quest bronze.
Meanwhile, Green Springs dominated the Panda and Faster Finger categories, with Nokeem Abdurojeem and Zuriel Ezemagu taking gold and silver, and Samuel Oni and Eiman Alason winning gold and silver in Faster Finger.
Other notable winners included Jesse Okike (Tiger category, Pottersland School), Alvin Osika (Panda category, Kiddie Quest), and David Folusho (Diamond School), among others.
Speaking to NAN, Adebayo expressed pride in his achievement. “I feel happy and proud to have won the gold medal for my school.
This victory motivates me to work harder and aim for international competitions,” he said. He described the tournament as both enjoyable and a valuable networking opportunity.
Tournament Director Collins Rockson highlighted his commitment to nurturing young talents through chess.
“Chess is more than a game, it builds critical thinking, discipline, and resilience.
”We call it ‘Chess and Life’ because the lessons extend beyond the board,” he explained.
He urged sponsors to support the initiative, noting that much of the funding comes from his personal resources.
Bowine International School Deputy Head, Abimbola Olatoye, lauded the partnership for promoting holistic child development.
“Chess teaches essential skills such as collaboration and problem-solving.
Our school is committed to nurturing young minds, and this initiative aligns perfectly with our vision,” she said.
The tournament showcased the growing talent in Nigeria’s youth
scene and underscored the importance of extracurricular activities in fostering intellectual growth.
NAN
