Samuel Okosagah was in an upbeat mood, moments after winning the Master’s crown at the 7th Godswill Akpabio International Scrabble Classics which ended in Uyo.

“It’s a great feeling winning this tournament for the second time,” began the London-based player.

“The competition was intense and I’m excited that I had to come from behind to beat off stiff opposition from better prepared players. It was a battle of wits. I’m elated because I came through it successful.”

Governor Godswill Akpabio playing scrabble with the world champion, Pakorn Nemitramansuk from Thailand.

Pakorn Nemitra-mansuk of Thailand won the $15,000 (N2.4million) prize last year for the first time after two attempts having placed third twice.

But it was a tense finish after Olatunde Oduwole staged a late fight-back to delay Okosagah who also clinched the title two years ago. Okosaga made his word power count winning 21 games.  Oduwole, the beaten finalist went home N1.5million richer while Komol Panya-sonpo of Thailand got N1million for placing third.

Reigning world champion,Nigel Richards of New Zealand dropped out of the race for the title at the 16th game of the best of 28 game classic staged at the Banquet hall of the Le Meridian Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort in Uyo.

President of the Nigerian Scrabble Federation, Engineer Toke Aka told Pilot Sports exclusively that he was thrilled by the performance of Nigerian players.

“Our players have come a long way. We’ve been third at the global stage before. I’m thrilled by the massive support we have enjoyed from the sports-loving of AkwaIbomState,” said Aka.

Four hundred and twenty players drawn from Kenya, Zambia, Ghana, Thailand, New Zealand and hosts Nigeria featured at the three-day event. It is the highest ranked event on the calendar of the World English Scrabble Association offering the biggest prize money.