The John Fawole Chess Awards 2024 recognized outstanding achievements in Nigeria’s chess community, bringing together distinguished guests and celebrated players. The prestigious event, held on Friday September 27, 2024 at Chevron Recreation Center Gbagada honored exceptional players, arbiters, and organizers who have contributed significantly to the sport’s growth.

The awards ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Mr. Lekan Adeyemi, Vice President of the World Chess Federation (FIDE), and Prince Adewole Adeyinka, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation. Other esteemed guests included Arena Grandmaster Apemiye Austin, International Arbiter Amisu Omotayo, Mr. Dasaolu Rotimi and FIDE Arbiter Oyebanji Ademola.

“The John Fawole Chess Awards 2024 celebrates Nigeria’s chess excellence,” said John Oyeyemi Fawole, founder of The John Fawole Chess Awards. “We’re proud to recognize the dedication and passion of our players and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to promote chess in Nigeria.”

The event highlighted Nigeria’s growing chess talent and the community’s commitment to developing the sport. A total of 30 awards were presented, acknowledging outstanding performances in various categories and recognizing individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to chess development in Nigeria.

Notable Awardees:

– Man Player of the Year 2022: Adegboyega Adebayo
– Woman Player of the Year 2022: Ogbiyoyo Perpetual
– Man Player of the Year 2023: Bomo Kigigha
– Woman Player of the Year 2023: Deborah Quickpen
– Junior Player of the Year 2022 Boys: Callistus Denyefa Eyetonghan
– Junior Player of the Year 2022 Girls:Onoja Iyefu Joy
– Junior Player of the Year 2023 Boys: Olisa Tennyson
– Junior Player of the Year 2023 Girls:Deborah Quickpen

Which Special recognition awards going to Former President of The Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ibrahim Babangida (GCFR), Ecobank Nigeria, Dr. Chioma Jovita, Dr. Donald Onyekwere, Mr. Kunle Kasumu, Marizu Nwokoma, Asana Kennedy, Babatunde Ashilokun, Professor Clement Bewaji, Dr. Apollos Akomaka, Olabode Sofoluwe and Ivie Urieto.

The Junior Player of the Year categories for 2022 and 2023 received a total of ₦200,000 in prizes, recognizing the promising talents of Nigeria’s young chess enthusiasts courtesy Mrs. Aisha Jimoh Ibrahim of Kidswalk Apparel and Hamgad Securities.

The John Fawole Chess Awards 2024 was made possible through the generous support of esteemed partners, including: FIJ Homes, Scholastic Talents USA, Bellyaid Foods, Toscalino Luxury Collection, FOD Real Estate Investment, Kidswalk Apparel and Hamgad Securities.

The John Fawole Chess Awards 2024 demonstrates our commitment to promoting chess and recognizing excellence,” said Mrs. Aisha Jimoh Ibrahim, CEO of Kidswalk Apparel & Hamgad Securities. “We’re proud to support Nigeria’s chess community.”

As Nigeria’s chess community continues to grow, events like the John Fawole Chess Awards 2024 play a crucial role in inspiring and motivating players. The awards ceremony concluded with a call to action, encouraging stakeholders to support chess development initiatives.

The John Fawole Chess Awards 2024 sets the stage for a brighter future for Nigerian chess,” said Prince Adewole Adeyinka. “We must continue to work together to develop the sport and produce world-class players.