A 14-year-old Nigerian, Goodness Ekunke, has made history after emerging winner of the FIDE World Amateur Rapid Chess Championship.
The tournament, held in Abuja, saw the teenager outplay a competitive field to claim the global title.Ekunke’s victory marks a major milestone for chess in Nigeria. Competing against players from several countries, he displayed composure, strategy, and speed that set him apart throughout the rapid-format games.
The youngster’s journey to the championship has drawn wide attention. Despite his age, he has been steadily building a reputation in national and international circuits, with this win being his biggest achievement yet.Organizers and chess officials in attendance praised Ekunke’s performance as inspiring for young players across Africa.
They noted that his success highlights the growing talent base on the continent and the potential for more breakthroughs in the sport.With the win in Abuja, Ekunke becomes one of the youngest Nigerians to win a FIDE world-level amateur event. Chess stakeholders say his triumph could serve as a boost for grassroots development and encourage more youth to take up the game.
