In what many have described as a surprise move on the Nigerian chessboard, the Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) has executed a major leadership reset following the 2025 national elections. The election, conducted under the supervision of the National Sports Commission (NSC), produced Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, PhD, OON (Talban Gombe) as the new President of the Federation, a result that stirred mixed reactions across the country’s chess community.
The emergence of Senator Dankwambo came as a surprise to many players and stakeholders who had expected a more familiar leadership to continue steering the Federation after a successful and widely praised tenure. The outgoing board had earned commendation for its achievements in organizational growth, tournament consistency, and increased visibility of Nigerian chess both locally and internationally.
However, while the change was unexpected and, in some quarters, somewhat controversial, the general tone within the community has not been hostile. Instead, players and enthusiasts have expressed measured optimism and curious anticipation about how this new administration will build on the established legacy and set new benchmarks for growth.
It’s a surprise, yes, but everyone’s watching and hoping this move brings more structure and sponsorship to the game.
Dankwambo’s Vision: Leadership, Legacy, and Expansion
In his official statement, Senator Dankwambo expressed profound gratitude to members, delegates, and supporters for their confidence and pledged to uphold transparency, professionalism, and inclusivity.
“This moment represents not only a personal honour but a collective milestone for Nigerian chess — a new chapter defined by visionary leadership, professionalism, and exemplary sportsmanship,” he said.
He commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) for their transparent electoral process and paid tribute to the outgoing President, DIG Sani Mohammed (Rtd), and Vice President Adeyinka Adewole, whose dedication and stewardship, he noted, had strengthened the Federation’s reputation.
Senator Dankwambo outlined a vision focused on expanding grassroots participation, developing young talent, and deepening corporate partnerships to enhance Nigeria’s presence in the global chess community. He also pledged strict adherence to the National Sports Commission Code of Governance 2025, describing it as central to ensuring accountability and institutional integrity.
A New Board, Familiar Energy
The newly inaugurated NCF board combines continuity and new direction, featuring both returning and new figures across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones and partner institutions:
- President: Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo
- Vice President / South West Representative: Prince Adeyinka Adewole
- South South Representative: FM Eugene Uwana
- South East Representative: Dr. Donald Onyekwere
- North Central Representative: IA Ehidiamhen Akhiwu
- North West Representative: Abdullahi Muhammed
- North East Representative: DIG (Rtd) Sani Mohammed, mni
- Sponsor/Philanthropist: Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo
- International Representative: IA Olalekan Adeyemi
- NAPHER Representative: Alhaji (Dr.) Bode Alli Durotoye
- NAWIS Representative: Mrs. Akitoye Mabel
- Technical Representative: IA Omotayo Hikmot Amisu
- Players’ Representative: IM Bunmi Olape
- Military/Paramilitary Representative: Mohammed Saleh (EFCC)
- AFFAN Representative: Mrs. Toun Engore
Reactions from the Chess Community
Across Nigeria’s chess scene, the election outcome has been a major topic of discussion. While opinions differ, most stakeholders agree on one thing: the next four years will test the Federation’s ability to sustain progress and deepen its impact.
With expectations high and scrutiny inevitable, the Federation now faces the challenge of translating its promises into progress. Whether this surprise move becomes a masterstroke will depend on how the new board navigates its next few moves, steady, strategic, and in full respect of the legacy it inherits.
