Champoins emerge as South East Chess championship ends in Umuahia

The South East Chess Classics hosted and sponsored by the Abia State Government has ended in Umuahia with winners emerging across four categories after four days of competition involving players from across the region.

Tyowase Tyover Collins claimed the Open Category, finishing ahead of CM Benjamin Omorere and Joy Idara Emmanuel, who placed second and third respectively.

Joshua Okwuosa won the Under-20 Category, while Kingsley Osayande and Ebenezer Ajieh finished second and third.

In the Female Category, Ayisha Suleiman took first place, followed by Treasure Ebiakpo and Adaeze Opan.

Emmanuel Okwuosa emerged champion in the Under-16 Category, with Oyeinkeperemo Bayefa and John Nwachukwu completing the top three.

Amarachukwu Theophilus Geocaf was named Best South East Player of the championship.

The closing ceremony featured the presentation of trophies, medals and cash prizes exceeding ₦4 million to the winners across the different categories.

South East Zonal Representative of the Chess Association, Dr. Donald Onyekwere, commended the Abia State Government for hosting the championship and acknowledged the contributions of Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba Nwadinma, and Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George.

Both officials received Awards of Recognition for their contributions to sports development in the state.

The South East Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Bernard Ezema, also praised the players for their discipline and commitment throughout the championship. He urged parents to support their children in competitive sports, noting that scholarships are available for outstanding athletes through the Commission.

The championship provided another platform for young chess players in the South East to compete, gain exposure and pursue opportunities in the sport.