The National Friends of Chess Tournament 2024 that held at Chevron, Gbagada from the 28th of March to the 2nd of April, 2024, recently concluded with Odion Aikhoje and Promise Oziegbe emerging as champions in their respective categories. Odion Aikhoje claimed the top spot in the over 2000 section after an exciting playoff for the Champion’s Trophy, while Promise Oziegbe secured victory in the under 2000 section.
In the over 2000 section, Odion Aikhoje, the 4th seed player, displayed impressive skills, securing seven victories and finishing with 7 out of 9 points. He was joined at the top by IM Bunmi Olape, resulting in joint first winners. FM Abdulrahman Abdulraheem and Daniel Akinseye secured 3rd and 4th positions, respectively. Notably, the tournament’s top seed, IM Daniel Balogun, finished in 11th place with 5.5 points, highlighting the competitive nature of the event that featured at least 50 players.
The under 2000 section saw Promise Oziegbe, the 7th seed player, shine with 7.5 points, claiming the championship trophy. Efoso Evbuomwan secured the silver medal with 7 points, while several players, including Deborah Quickpen, Sylvester Izokwu, and others, were tied with 7 points, displaying the intense competition.
Deborah Quickpen, Nigeria’s recent Best Female has been actively participating and showcasing her newly developed skills, she left another mind blowing impression by finishing 6th in the under 2000 section with 7 points, despite entering the competition ranked 17th. Quickpen also received accolades as the Best Female and Best Under 16 Player, further highlighting her talent and potential in chess.
Overall, the NFOC 2024 was a testament to the skill and determination of the participants, with notable achievements and fierce competition across both sections with players like Odion Aikhoje, Promise Oziegbe, and Deborah Quickpen shining brightly and earning well-deserved recognition.
