Bright lights, red background, and various Red themed designs—these were the optical view of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. The stadium was only half-filled due to the rigid protocol of security and safety against covid-19 but the energy of people in jubilation and celebration was enough to cover for all.
Report by: Tolulope Fasinu
The ceremony had the presence of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria—Professor Yemi Osinbajo, among other honorable dignitaries. As every special occasion deserves a special touch, the Nigerian National anthem was led by Nigerian Singer, songwriter, and music producer—Timi Dakolo, after which the official mascot of the festival was presented as the participating teams were called in. The team match was colorful in display of culture with theme songs.
The athletes, coaches, and officials took the stage to swear the oath to good sportsmanship, few more announcements were made and the rest of the night was all jubilations and merriments. YBNL superstar Adedamola Adefolahan also known as FireBoy–DML had a stage performance.
The chess events captain’s meeting began at 7:30 am on Wednesday 7th April 2021 at The Basement/Banquet Hall, University of Benin, Ugbowo, the same venue for the chess games which starts today, 7th April 2021 through Monday 12th April 2021.
In attendance was the chief arbiter of the 20th NSF Chess Event—IA Amisu Tayo, the Deputy arbiter B—IA Obinna Ogbonnaya, the Deputy Arbiter A—Mr. Lekan Adeyemi although, was yet to arrive at the venue as at the time this article is being written, and the Central Arbiter for the Female category is—FA Oyebanji Ademola.
The Chief Arbiter—IA Amisu Tayo addressed issues concerning tie break which will be by the consideration of Match Point and Game point, but in the case of equal Match Point (MP) and Game Point (GP), there will be a play-off. She further emphasized that strict discipline will be observed and lateness into the hall will not be tolerated.
Games will start everyday in the morning hour at 9:00am and afternoon games at 2:00pm. Players not seated at their boards 15mins after the start of the clock will not be allowed in anymore. However, walkover can only be claimed 1 hour after the start of chess clocks.
Due to the protocol on the control of covid-19, spectators will not be allowed into the playing hall, but the games for table 1 will be broadcasted live by the Go for Grandmaster founder Austin Apemiye.
The arbiters took time to address questions and give clarity to concerns of team captains and the meeting was adjourned to prepare the hall for the games at 2 PM.
The first round will be paired by teams’ average ratings as opposed to the use of the balloting method earlier considered.
As for the event being rated, we still can’t say for sure at this moment but we just have to wait to hear from the President of the Nigerian Chess Federation.
We will be bringing you all the story from the event as it goes on.
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Report by: Tolulope Fasinu
Nice read. We are glue to this page. Lol