The Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) will host the prestigious FIDE Zone 4.2 Chess Championship in Lagos. This will be the first time the tournament takes place in Nigeria. The event is scheduled to be held from March 31 to April 9, 2025, at the Citiheight Luxury Hotel, Ikeja.

The championship brings together top chess players from 12 West African nations. They will compete for regional dominance in a tournament that promises fierce competition and national pride.

Akintoye returns as defending champion

Nigeria’s Abdulraheem Akintoye will defend the title he won at the 2024 edition in Monrovia, Liberia. His victory last year was a standout performance that boosted Nigeria’s profile in international chess.

Akintoye is one of Nigeria’s most promising chess talents. He will face tough competition this year, but many believe he can retain the title.

Twelve nations set to compete

According to Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the NCF, the participating countries are:

• Nigeria

• Ghana

• Liberia

• Sierra Leone

• Togo

• Senegal

• Cape Verde

• Gambia

• Ivory Coast

• Mali

• Burkina Faso

These nations represent the FIDE Zone 4.2, which covers chess federations across West Africa. Adewole confirmed that the teams will begin arriving on March 31, with official matches starting on April 1.

Celebrating 50 years of Nigerian chess

The championship coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Nigeria Chess Federation. According to Adewole, hosting the event at this time is a major milestone.

“For the past four years, we’ve participated in this tournament across West Africa,” he said. “We’ve played in Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast, Togo, and Liberia. Now, it’s our turn to host. It’s a proud moment for us.”

Adewole also acknowledged the role of various stakeholders. He thanked the National Sports Commission, FIDE (World Chess Body), and the African Chess Confederation for their support. He added that more sponsors will be announced during the event.

Lagos to host second tournament in April

Following the Zone 4.2 Championship, Lagos will also host the Super Zonal Championship from April 10 to April 16. This second event will feature the winners of zonal championships from across Africa.

According to Adewole, the tournament will determine the “Champion of Champions.” The winner will earn a place in the FIDE World Cup later this year. They will also qualify for the Grand Swiss Tournament, one of the most competitive global chess events.

Nigeria’s growing influence in global chess

Hosting two major tournaments back-to-back signals Nigeria’s rising importance in the international chess scene. It also shows the country’s readiness to support chess as both a sport and a cultural tool.

The FIDE Zone 4.2 Championship is expected to attract attention from chess enthusiasts across the continent. With Nigeria leading the way, West African chess is set for a new era of visibility and success.