THE Coordinator of the Chess event at the 2016 Nigerian Army Sports Festival, Brigadier General Allen Kigbu has revealed plans to partner the Nigerian Chess Federation in their quest to promote the sports in Nigeria.

Speaking at the end of the chess competition held at the officers’ mess of the Army Headquarters Garrison im Asokoro, Brig- Gen Kigbu said their aim is to ensure that the event is incorporated in the NCF calendar which will pave way for its rating.

“This competition cuts across all ranks of the military from the lowest to the highest. This will enable us to have officers and soldiers rated”.

While assuring that the verification process is at an advanced stage, he thanked the board of the NCF led by Lekan Adeyemi for their support so far.

He revealed that two internationally graded arbiters who were sent by the federation were on ground to supervise the event.

“They sent two arbiters who are international arbiters to monitor and adjudge the situation to make sure that they (players) play according to the rules and regulations of the sport.”

Meanwhile, Lt. Colonel E.E Igoche from the Army Headquarter Garrison won the gold medal in the Blitz (individual) event with 4 points ahead of Lt. Colonel S.O Solomon from 1 Division. General Egwu Okezie had to settle for the bronze medal.