ChessMasters Tournament Returns to Lagos with 150 Schools Competing for N10M Prize

The ChessMasters tournament is making its much-awaited return to Lagos, this time aiming to involve 750 participants from 150 different schools, all vying for an impressive N10 million in prize money. This year’s edition will take place on May 2, 2026, and is themed 'Your Move', reflecting the evolution of the event from its inaugural excitement to a deeper commitment to nurturing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities among Nigerian youth.

Following a successful launch last year at the Eko Convention Centre, ChessMasters is building on its reputation as Africa’s largest school chess competition, emphasizing vital 21st-century skills. The organizers aim to use chess as a transformative tool to prepare students for a rapidly changing world, guided by strategic thinking and resilience.

ChessMasters is a collaborative initiative between KEY Academy, an educational entity focused on project-based learning, and Eko Hotels & Suites, a leading hospitality venue in Nigeria. The partnership seeks not only to promote chess as a game but also as a means of empowering the next generation with essential life skills.

At a press briefing held earlier this week, Mrs. Caline Chagoury Moudaber, co- founder of ChessMasters and director at Eko Hotels, highlighted the remarkable impact of the previous tournament, stating, “Last year, we witnessed how chess could ignite creativity among over 500 students. This year, we are inviting more young minds to understand that every move they make contributes to a brighter future for our community.”

Moudaber articulated a vision focused on elevating Lagos and its younger population, expressing her admiration for the city and its potential. She added, “As we highlight the strengths of Lagos, we want to ensure everything is done excellently, and I’m proud of Eko Hotels’ involvement in supporting this cause.”

Damilola Okonkwo, founder of KEY Academy, echoed similar sentiments, describing ChessMasters as more than just a competition; it is a nurturing platform for children to hone their decision-making and critical thinking skills. “We are fostering a generation of problem solvers who recognize the significance of their strategies, both on the chess board and in their lives,” she mentioned.

Emphasizing the tournament's inclusive nature, Okonkwo noted that participation from 150 schools this year, up from 100 last year, signals growing enthusiasm among students. Regardless of individual outcomes, all participants are acknowledged and celebrated, creating a sense of community and shared achievement.

The General Manager of Eko Hotels & Suites, Danny Kiopouroglou, pointed out that even in an era dominated by technology, board games like chess remain culturally significant and beneficial for social well-being. He stated, “Contrary to predictions of their decline, we are witnessing a resurgence of interest in chess worldwide, which aids in improving social interactions and overall mental health.”

First Bank of Nigeria, represented by Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, reaffirmed the bank's commitment to youth empowerment through sponsorship. “This event is pivotal for building the strategic thinking capabilities of our youth,” Ijabiyi remarked, highlighting the opportunity for young participants to challenge themselves in a competitive arena.

In a significant move, the prize pool for the 2026 ChessMasters has increased from ₦5 million to ₦10 million, with awards now extended to the top ten schools instead of just the top three.

As the excitement builds for this year’s event, which will focus on primary school pupils aged 5 to 11, the organizers are also planning to broaden the tournament's reach to include schools across Nigeria in the future, with aspirations of going Pan-African.

Okonkwo summarized the intent behind the ChessMasters initiative, stating, “With ChessMasters 2026, we look forward to even larger participation, increased prizes, and enhanced opportunities for young people throughout Lagos.”