Abdulmumin Jimoh, at the weekend, won the Premier Division at the 2025 Lekki Scrabble Classics, securing the coveted title, a trophy, and a N1 million cash prize at the two-day tournament.
In the championship division, Bukunmi Afolayan outclassed a competitive field to claim the top honour. Both champions sealed their victories emphatically in Round 17 with one game to spare, underlining their dominance across the tournament.
Jimoh, who led from day one, defied the so-called “Day One Champion” jinx, a trend where early leaders falter before the finish line, by staying consistent and focused, playing most of his games on the top table.
He finished with 14 wins, four losses and an impressive cumulative spread of +1569. Rounding out the top five in the Premier Division were John Ayedun (12-6, +820), David Ojih (12-6, +475), Larry Etuwa (12-6, +421) and Khaleel Adedeji (12-6, +217).
Jimoh’s recent form has been nothing short of sensational. Prior to this tournament, he delivered top performances at both the Bubble International Scrabble Tournament and the National Sports Festival, where he represented Ogun State.
“I’m quite excited with this victory at the Lekki Scrabble Classics 2025. It was a tough tournament, but hard work and continuous training played a key role,” Jimoh said.
“I want to appreciate Cyril Umebiye, my best captain ever and the Ogun State scrabble family. This tournament is one of the toughest, with players coming from different countries.
“I commend the Lekki Scrabble Club for hosting one of the best tournaments in Africa.” In the Championship Division, youth sensation and World Best Youth Female Player, Sophia Ekeruche, dazzled with her skills but was narrowly edged out by the more experienced Afolayan.
Ekeruche finished second in the championship division with 13½ points and a cumulative spread of +1239. Afolayan, also representing Ogun State, claimed the title with a dominant record of 16 wins and +1357.
The tournament also highlighted the growing influence of young players, who put up strong performances and frequently challenged their older, more seasoned opponents.
In his closing remarks, the president of the Lekki Scrabble Club, Samuel Anikoh, commended the participants and acknowledged the tournament sponsors for their support.
He said: “Our club is committed to developing the sport at the grassroots, especially in schools. We are proud to have supported several young players who have gone on to succeed at the world level.” The championships featured players from Ghana, Uganda, and the United Kingdom, adding international flair to the prestigious event.
