64 Adamawa Students Shine at State Chess Tournament

A lively atmosphere filled the hall over the weekend as 64 students from 17 secondary schools across Adamawa State gathered for a competitive chess tournament organised by Queenvee Chess Academy in collaboration with Senator Binos Yaroe. The event brought together young chess enthusiasts who spent hours studying their boards, thinking carefully about every move, and trying to outwit their opponents.

For many of the students, the tournament was more than just a competition. It was an opportunity to test their skills, meet other young players, and experience the thrill that comes with strategic thinking. Teachers, coaches, and supporters watched closely as the students concentrated deeply on their games.

From the first round to the final matches, the competition remained intense. Players moved their pieces carefully while spectators quietly followed every step of the game. At times, the room would fall completely silent as students tried to calculate their next move.

In the boys’ individual category, Timothy Hassan of Future Stars College emerged as the champion after a series of impressive performances. His ability to stay calm and plan several moves ahead helped him secure the gold medal.

Abel Zamdai from Poli Academy finished in second place to claim the silver medal. He fought through several difficult matches and showed strong determination throughout the tournament.

Daniel Oye of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) came third to win the bronze medal after a solid performance that impressed many observers at the competition.

Students who finished in fourth, fifth, and sixth positions in the boys’ category also received recognition for their efforts. Competitors from GDSS Wauro Jabbe, Restoration High School, and LCCN Academy took those positions respectively and were awarded cash prizes for their performances.

The girls’ category also delivered exciting moments during the weekend competition. Several players demonstrated remarkable focus and tactical skills as they battled across the chessboards.

Rachel David of Future Stars College stood out among the girls to claim the gold medal after defeating strong opponents in the final rounds. Her consistent performance throughout the tournament earned her admiration from spectators and coaches.

Ruth Ishaku of Sabon Dan Karo Academy finished in second place and received the silver medal. She displayed patience and strong strategic thinking during her matches.

Florence Peter from GDSS Wauro Jabbe secured the bronze medal after finishing in third place following a determined performance in the tournament.

Just like in the boys’ category, the girls who finished in fourth, fifth, and sixth positions were also rewarded with cash prizes. Those positions were taken by players from AUN, LJS Mbamba, and Poli Academy, respectively.

Beyond the individual medals, schools also competed for overall honours based on their combined performances during the tournament. At the end of the event, Future Stars College emerged as the overall best-performing school.

The school secured the championship trophy after its students delivered strong results in both the boys’ and girls’ categories.

GDSS Wauro Jabbe finished as the second-best school in the competition, while Poli Academy came third to complete the list of top-performing schools.

Organisers described the weekend tournament as a successful event that highlighted the growing interest in chess among young people in Adamawa State. They said the competition also helped identify talented players who could represent the state at higher levels.

Chess has increasingly become popular among students because it encourages logical thinking, patience, and problem-solving skills. Many teachers believe the game also helps students improve their focus in the classroom.

Several teachers who accompanied their students to the event praised the initiative. They said activities like chess competitions provide students with positive ways to engage their minds outside regular academic lessons.

Parents and supporters who attended the tournament also commended the organisers for creating an environment where young people can develop intellectual confidence while enjoying friendly competition.

For the students themselves, the experience was both exciting and educational. Some said they learned new strategies from watching other players, while others said the tournament helped them understand the importance of patience and careful planning.

The organisers noted that the tournament is part of a broader effort to develop chess among young people in the state. Through events like this, they hope to nurture talented players who can compete at national and international levels.

One of the biggest highlights of the tournament is that the winners will go on to represent Adamawa State at the National Youth Games scheduled to take place in Lagos in 2026.

The opportunity to compete at the national level has already created excitement among the winning students, many of whom said they are determined to train harder and perform well when the time comes.

As the weekend tournament came to an end, winners proudly posed with their medals, trophies, and certificates. Friends, teachers, and supporters gathered around them to celebrate their achievements.

The memorable moments of the competition were captured by photographers Jerry Wilson and Favour Peter, who documented the intense games and joyful celebrations.