A new chapter in youth chess development is set to begin in Ogun State as the Ogun State Chess Association, in partnership with Cyntoco Services Ltd, prepares to stage the maiden Ogun State Under-25 Rapid Chess Tournament from March 27 to 28, 2026 in Abeokuta.
The two-day championship will hold at the Ogun State Sports Council, Ijeja Stadium, where some of the most talented young chess players from across Ogun State and neighboring areas are expected to converge for what promises to be an intense and high-quality competition.
Read Also: ‘Finish Strong!’ Mac-Dangosu Charges D’Tigress to End Qualifiers on a High Against Germany | Sports247 Nigeria
What gives the tournament added significance is its official FIDE rating status, which means participants will not only compete for honours and prize money but will also have the chance to improve their international rankings. For many of the young players expected at the event, this presents a major opportunity to test themselves in a recognized competitive environment and gain valuable exposure.
The tournament will be played over 11 rounds of rapid chess, with each game set at a time control of 20 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move. With that format, organisers are expecting exciting contests filled with speed, calculation, pressure, and tactical brilliance.
Beyond prestige, there is also strong financial motivation for the competitors. The tournament boasts a total prize pool of ₦1,000,000, with the eventual winner set to claim ₦250,000. The second and third-place finishers will receive ₦150,000 and ₦100,000 respectively, while cash rewards will extend down to the 15th position, ensuring that several standout performers are recognized.
To further encourage wider participation and inclusion, special prizes have also been created for the Best Female Player and the Best Under-14 Player, a move organisers believe will inspire more young talents to embrace the game competitively.
According to the organisers, the vision behind the competition is clear: to deepen chess development among young players in Ogun State and provide an avenue for emerging stars to compete at a higher level.
With registration already open and early slots reserved for the first 30 players, expectations are building that the maiden edition could become a major annual event and strengthen Ogun State’s growing reputation as an important centre for chess and mind sports in Nigeria.
