Indian Language School has emerged as the winner of the FirstBank-sponsored ChessMasters 2026 tournament, earning N5m out of the total prize pool of N10m. The tournament, organised by Eko Hotels and Suites in conjunction with KEY Academy, saw intense contests among over 750 pupils in Lagos.

The school was declared the champion after winning via a tie-break despite recording victories in all six of its games. It was closely followed by Jareb Private School, which finished second after also securing victories in all six games. Dupeolu Children land School took the third position after recording five wins and one loss.

The bank’s Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, commended the organisers while expressing the bank’s commitment to supporting the development of talent.

He said, “Our sponsorship of ChessMasters 2026 reflects our commitment to building talents and communities, driving inclusion, and deepening engagement through our First@Sports initiative, a platform that celebrates talent and promotes social impact through sports.

“With over a century of supporting legacy sports in Nigeria, we are proud of our enduring partnerships: 105 years with the Georgian Cup, 65 years with the Lagos Amateur Golf Championship, and 35 years with the Dala Hard Court Tennis Championship.”

Ijabiyi underscored the potential of chess, noting that it helps school-age children challenge themselves, think critically, and compete at the highest level. He described the tournament as a launchpad for a pan-African movement leveraging chess as a tool for education, empowerment, and leadership development.

The Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, Prince Adeyinka Adewole, also commended the initiative, emphasising its role in nurturing future chess talents.

“Chess connects people, ideas, and opportunities. It teaches children to be analytical and patient and to manage their time and resources effectively. Chess also improves concentration and has been particularly beneficial for children with autism,” Adewole stated.