Tradition and strategy can be harnessed in building stronger communities, the Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF), Prince Adeyinka Adewole has said.
He stated this in Ile-Ife at the 7th edition of the Olojo Festival World Chess Tournament, where the ancient city, revered as the cradle of Yoruba civilization, was once again at the centre of global attention.
The two-day event, held between Friday, 19 September and Saturday, 20 September 2025 at the Ife Grand Resorts, was a FIDE-rated rapid competition that brought together elite players, rising stars, and chess enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.
Jointly organised by Raia Rooks Chess Academy, Ile-Ife, Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) and CASW, in partnership with the Hopes Alive Initiative under the leadership of His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, Chief Convener, and Her Regal Majesty Olori Ambassador Dr Temitope Enitan-Ogunwusi, Deputy Convener, the tournament carried a prize fund of 1.5 million naira.
While the NCF, CASW and Raia Rooks oversaw the technical aspects of the competition, the full weight of royal backing rested with Their Majesties, symbolising a commitment to intellectual excellence, youth empowerment and cultural rebirth.
The Olojo Festival, which commemorates creation and spiritual renewal, has in recent years evolved into a platform where tradition meets innovation. The chess tournament has become one of its most striking features, showcasing the blending of Yoruba heritage with global intellectual sport.
Speaking on the broader significance of the event, NCF Vice President Prince Adeyinka Adewole noted that chess mirrors the values of discipline, strategy and foresight that are deeply ingrained in Yoruba culture. “By integrating chess into the Olojo Festival, we are demonstrating how tradition and intellect can come together to build stronger communities,” he said.
On Nigeria’s place in the global chess scene, he added: “Nigeria is currently number one in West Africa and seventh on the continent. We do not yet have a Grandmaster, but we have International Masters with great potential. With the right sponsorships, support and mentorship, Nigeria can definitely rise to higher status in the global chess community.”
According to him, events such as the Olojo Festival World Chess Tournament serve as a preparatory ground to elevate the country’s standing in world chess. On the question of legacy, he stressed that the tournament is laying a foundation for the youth, inspiring them to embrace not only chess but also the virtues of discipline, strategy and intellectual pursuit that the game represents.
The 7th edition of the tournament was contested under a rapid time control format of 15 minutes plus a 10-second increment per move, ensuring a fast-paced and entertaining display.
Prizes were structured across categories to guarantee inclusivity, with the open section offering 200,000 naira to the winner, the under 2000 rating category awarding 150,000 naira, the ladies’ category giving 80,000 naira, a knockout section with a 200,000 naira prize, and juniors under 14 earning a top prize of 40,000 naira. Special recognition was also given to outstanding performances.
Chief organiser of the tournament and CEO of Raia Rooks Chess Academy, Hon. Adebisi Awope, described the event as historic. “Hosting a prestigious FIDE-rated chess tournament under the umbrella of the Olojo Festival is remarkable. It speaks not only to the origin of humanity that Ile-Ife represents but also to the resilience of Yoruba heritage,” he said.
He added: “Chess, much like culture, is a universal language that promotes strategy, discipline and mental strength. By bringing it into the framework of the festival, Ile-Ife is reinforcing its role as a cradle of both tradition and intellectual pursuit.”
For participants, the tournament was more than just a competition. Ofubu Samson, one of the players, described the experience as both cultural and recreational. “Taking part in the Olojo Festival Chess Tournament has been a new kind of vacation for me. Beyond the games, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the ancient city, connect with its people, experience the culture and enjoy the hospitality. It’s something truly unique,” he said.
The tournament, endorsed by FIDE and the Nigeria Chess Federation, attracted players from diverse backgrounds and promoted sports tourism in Osun State. To encourage participation, the first 30 registered players received free accommodation.
As the Olojo Festival 2025 progresses, Ile-Ife stands once more as both a custodian of ancient Yoruba tradition and a centre of modern intellectual excellence, projecting a powerful image of cultural rebirth and national pride.