By Esther Onyegbula

Platform Schools, Ipaja, Lagos, has emerged winner of the 2026 Ecobank National Schools’ Team Chess Championship, clinching the coveted title for the third time in the history of the competition.
The school carted home the star prize of N2.5 million after defeating strong competition from across the country at the third edition of the championship held at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Dayspring School, Oyo State, finished second and received N2 million, while King’s College Lagos came third with a cash prize of N1.5 million.
Organised in partnership with the Nigeria Chess Federation, the tournament attracted over 1,500 students from 300 schools nationwide, underscoring the growing popularity of chess among young Nigerians.

The championship, which focused on nurturing strategic thinking and intellectual development among students, was held in a team format. The Primary Schools category took place on May 7, while the Secondary Schools event followed on May 8, with participants competing in a six-round rapid chess format.

Speaking after the victory, Director of Platform Schools, Dr. Adebola Obe, described the achievement as a reflection of the school’s long-term investment in chess development and intellectual training.
According to him, the school has established itself as a dominant force in school chess in Nigeria since winning the inaugural edition of the competition and subsequently representing the country at an international tournament in Kazakhstan.

“It secured second place the following year, and clinched first place both last year and again this year, cementing its reputation as a consistent champion,” Obe said.
He explained that the school’s consistent performance was driven by a deliberate policy that ensures every child participates in chess competitions.

“Platform Schools has made significant investment in training and developing its chess team, with the goal of preparing students to compete at the highest level and make Nigeria proud on the world stage.
“The school remains committed to using chess as a tool for developing critical thinking, discipline and resilience in students, while showcasing Nigerian talent globally,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, Head of Educational and Social Services at Ecobank Nigeria, Adeunle Adewuyi, challenged participating students to aspire to become Grand Masters in the future.
“There are Grand Masters in Kenya, Rwanda and some other African countries, but sadly, we don’t have any in Nigeria at the moment. It is our prayer that some of these students will become one in the near future,” he said.

Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, Prince Adeyinka Adewole, commended Ecobank Nigeria for sustaining the championship and expanding opportunities for young chess talents across the country.
He noted that participation and organisation had improved steadily since the inaugural edition and expressed optimism that future editions would record even greater impact.

Beyond the competition itself, organisers said the championship was designed to promote critical thinking, discipline and strategic skills among students, while also encouraging inclusiveness through programmes tailored for schools for the blind.