Get Guardian on GoogleA six-year-old Scrabble prodigy, AbdulSalam Yusuf, from Kwara State, stole the show at the 9th National Youth Games (NYG), winning gold and silver medals in a stunning display of talent and composure.
Competing against older and more experienced players, AbdulSalam clinched gold in the team event and silver in the doubles category, a feat that drew admiration from coaches, officials, and spectators.
His remarkable achievement has been hailed as a major milestone for youth Scrabble in Nigeria.
Speaking after his win, the primary two pupil credited his success to “divine intervention and hard work.”
Scrabble coaches at the event expressed confidence in his potential, saying that with the right support and mentorship, AbdulSalam could represent Nigeria at future national and international tournaments.
He commended the Kwara State Sports Council and the state government for facilitating his participation but urged authorities to go further by introducing Scrabble into schools across the state to nurture more young talents.
The 9th National Youth Games brought together hundreds of young athletes from across Nigeria to compete in multiple sports, serving as a platform for talent discovery and youth empowerment.
