Report by Abah Samuel E
Outside the Orchid Hotel in Lekki, Lagos, the familiar Lagos traffic held sway, horns blaring, engines revving, and people moving with urgency. But once inside the hotel gallery, it was a different atmosphere entirely. The noise gave way to calm, and guests were welcomed by striking, almost life‑size chess pieces arranged with elegance, setting the mood for an evening dedicated to the game of kings.
It was the opening ceremony of the 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships.
As guests filed into the hall, some settled quickly into their seats while others took time to admire the décor and exchange greetings. There was a quiet excitement in the room, the kind that comes when everyone knows they are about to witness something important. Slowly, the hall filled up, and the ceremony came alive.
The event was anchored by Chukwuma “Happivibe” Ezeh, who guided proceedings with ease and warmth. The ceremony officially began with an opening address by Mr Olakunle Kasumu, President of the Orchid‑Lekki Chess Club. He thanked the guests for honouring the invitation and acknowledged the collective effort behind the championship. He also shared a brief story about the Orchid-Lekki Chess Club, the host of the tournament, describing the seven-day event as a culmination of years of dedication and passion for the growth of chess in Nigeria.
Mr Kasumu then invited the special guests of honour to take their seats at the high table. Present were Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigerian Chess Federation; Mr Joshua Odega, Managing Director of Orchid Hotel; Mr Lekan Adeyemi, Vice President of FIDE, the world chess governing body; Alhaji Dr Bode Durotoye, Chief Arbiter of the championship; and International Arbiter Amisu Omotayo Hikmot, who also serves as President of the Nigerian Chess Arbiters Association.
From the light conversations and shared laughter among the dignitaries, it was clear that the evening would be a blend of serious competition and genuine camaraderie, a true celebration of chess and those who keep the game alive in the country.
The defending champions were then reintroduced to the audience: Ferdinand Tersee Nyuima, the Open/Men’s Champion, and Ofowino Toritsemuwa, the Women’s category. Though both wore bright smiles, there was no mistaking the focus in their expressions – champions ready to defend their crowns.
Prince Adeyinka Adewole was later invited to address the gathering. With soft music playing in the background, he spoke about the steady rise of chess in Nigeria, highlighting the increasing participation, improved organisation, and growing opportunities for players nationwide. His remarks set the tone for what promises to be an exciting week of high‑level chess.
The evening was further enriched by a poetic performance from Ire Belles, whose words captured the beauty, struggle, and quiet intensity of the game, earning warm applause from the audience.
One of the standout moments of the night was a miniature exhibition game between Prince Adeyinka Adewole and International Arbiter Amisu Omotayo Hikmot. What was initially announced as a demonstration quickly turned into a competitive event. Prince Adeyinka pressed early with quick development and attacking ideas, but Mrs Hikmot responded confidently with a solid Stonewall setup, soaking up pressure and launching sharp counterattacks. In the end, she offered a draw, which was accepted with smiles, handshakes, and applause from the crowd.
The ceremony reached its symbolic peak when Mr Lekan Adeyemi, Vice President of FIDE, approached the ceremonial board. With cameras flashing, he pushed the white king’s pawn two squares, the classic 1.e4, officially declaring the championship open. In that moment, the journey of another national chess battle had truly begun.
Guests were then treated to a buffet‑style dinner, led by the special guests, rounding off the evening on a relaxed and celebratory note.
By the time the ceremony came to an end, one message was clear: chess in Nigeria continues to grow, not just as a competitive sport, but as a powerful tool for unity. Across age, background, and belief, the 64 squares once again brought minds together, and the 2025 Nigeria National Chess Championships were officially underway.
