By Nicholas Eboigbe
Chess players from different parts of the country are expected to converge in Benin December 16 to participate in the second edition of Benin Chess Tournament tagged Oba’s Cup.
According to the co-ordinator of the tournament, Omoyemwen Afolabi the competition which ends on December 19 will hold at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
Omoyemwen Afolabi explained that this year’s tourney which would also be sponsored by the 7up Bottling Company will be better that of the first outing.
“I really gathered experiences from the first edition. That experience informed early organisation and preparation for the tournament.
She promised to continue to contribute her quota towards the development of chess sport in the state.
She said the prizes that will be given to prospective players will be determined in due course.
“I thank our father, His Royal Majesty Omo’N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa, the Oba of Benin for his magnanimity and giving me the opportunity to co-ordinate the tournament each year.
This is the second edition” Mrs Afolabi also expressed immense gratitude to the 7up Bottling Company for its support.
“7up Bottling Company has been very fantastic. I thank the Managing Director, Mr. Sawhney Sunil, the Edo State Sports Council and Ministry of Youths and Sports. They have continued to encourage and assist me, ensuring the set goal of organising the tournament is realized”.
The objective of this chess tournament is to popularise it as well as ensure that people show interest and participate in the game.
You know when young people are idle, they can take to criminal activities, that is why I want to use the chess to fill the gap, keep them busy and in the process have a career in the game in future.
