The Maiden Edition of the Engr Ochekwu Adokwu Memorial Chess Championship on Sunday, 3rd August, 2025 came to a rousing conclusion with Mr. Omorere Benjamin emerging winner of Rapid Category and Uba Efe winner of the Britz Category.
The two-day tournament which took place at Sheraton Hotel, Makurdi, the Benue State capital brought together 61 participants with each competitor vying for glory in their respective categories in the midst of other Chess enthusiasts across Nigeria who were treated to an unforgettable display of skill, determination, and resilience.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the chief organizer of the prestigious Engr Ochekwu Adokwu Memorial Chess Championship, Mr. Agaba Adokwu who spoke on behalf of the organizers commended all the participants at the maiden edition for their resilience and performances throughout the tournament.
He appreciated key stakeholders who contributed to the success of the Engr Ochekwu Adokwu Memorial Chess Championship, noting that, the Championship was the labour of his love for chess, driven by his desire to give back to society, and his heartfelt wish to honour the memory of his late brother, Engr. Ochekwu Adokwu who until his death was an avid chess enthusiast.
Mr. Agaba who highlighted the enormous benefits of Chess to include enhanced cognitive skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities, called on all spirited individuals, particularly Chess lovers and the Government of Benue State to continue to promote and develop the game in Benue State, stressing that, he desires to make the championship a biennial event.
In their seperate tributes to the late Engr Ochekwu Adokwu, Hon. Mrs. Cristy Adokwu, Favour Adokwu, Oche Ogori, Engr. Bendega Jila all described the deceased as a very gentle young man who made sacrifices for the comfort of others and prayed that, God should continue to grant his soul eternal rest and console his family.
President of Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF), DIG Sani Mohammed who was represented by International Arbiter Akhiwo Ehidiamhen Eugene, appreciated organizers of the Engr Ochekwu Adokwu Memorial Chess Championship for putting up such a steering event that has energized Chess in Benue State, noting that, the caliber of people and the turnout for the grand finale of the tournament was a testament of the Late Engr. Adokwu’s impact in the society when he was alive.
While congratulating winners of the tournament, the NCF President reiterated his call on the government of Benue State to help in growing Chess in the State, adding that, the game was significant in increasing logical thinking, analytical and problem-solving skills.
There was a goodwill message from the Director of Sports, Benue Ministry of Youths and Sports who was represented by the Head of Training and Coaching in the Ministry, Mr. Peter Obaike.
During the closing ceremony, Special recognition awards were presented to the officiating team members and key stakeholders including Prof. Godwin Abu, Prof. David Aondoakaa Utume, Anthony Agbenyi Ogor and Mrs. Roselyne Jila.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of cheques to the winner of the Rapid Category, Mr. Omorere Benjamin and Four runner ups, winner of Britz Category, Uba Efe and two runner ups, as well as two best female players and two under 14 players.
