Abuja: A non-profit initiative, Chess for Social Impact, celebrated International Chess Day with an Elite Chess Meetup in Abuja, combining competitive play with a fundraiser for Nigeria's rising chess prodigy, Tennyson Olisa. The event, held at Caf© One, Sterling Bank Plaza, attracted top players, enthusiasts, and philanthropists to promote chess as a tool for unity, education, and youth empowerment.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, this year's theme, 'Every Move Counts,' emphasized the importance of each decision on the chessboard and in the life of a young athlete. Oto-obong Mendie, Founder of Chess for Social Impact and Executive Director of the Mendlife Global Foundation, stated that the gathering aimed to inspire change through the game. 'We are here not just to play chess, but to drive transformation. Our focus this year is on supporting Tennyson Olisa, a young Nigerian making waves internationally,' she said.
Olisa, 22, hailing from Delta, recently qualified for the prestigious FIDE Grand Swiss in Uzbekistan and the World Cup in India. His journey, however, necessitates an estimated N54 million to cover visa processing in Egypt, travel, training, coaching, media, and accommodation. 'Tennyson's path reveals the financial hurdles many gifted Nigerian players face. He has the skill, the discipline, and the heart, what he needs now is backing,' Mendie added.
Oto-obong Mendie, alongside the Nigeria Chess Federation's Vice President, Adeyinka Adewole, was instrumental in organizing the event. Tennyson's elder brother and manager, Mr. Anthony Olisa, highlighted the event's aim to increase Tennyson's visibility and attract sponsors for his upcoming global engagements. 'Tennyson started playing at 13, and we've supported him ever since. He's one of Africa's best today and ready to represent Nigeria proudly on the world stage,' he said.
The Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, Adeyinka Adewole, affirmed the federation's full support and urged stakeholders, including Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, corporate sponsors, and the wider public, to rally behind Olisa's cause. 'This will be his first major international outing. It's a dream come true, and we're proud to stand with him,' Adewole said.
The Abuja event featured a blitz tournament, exhibition match, and a mentorship session where Olisa played against seven elite players simultaneously. A silent auction of chess-themed art also contributed to fundraising efforts. Visibly moved, Olisa expressed gratitude to attendees, stating, 'Representing Nigeria has always been my dream. I am committed to giving it my all.'
Over N5 million was raised during the event, nearly halfway to the N54 million target. Dignitaries, diplomats, business leaders, and former champions attended, pledging support to ensure the young star's participation on the global stage. The foundation announced plans to continue the fundraising drive through online campaigns and strategic partnerships in the weeks ahead.
Mendie urged Nigerians at home and abroad to support Olisa and other young talents. 'Every move counts on the board and in life. Let's invest in our youth and help them reach greatness,' she said. A highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes to the top three winners of the tournament, alongside recognition awards to sponsors and patrons.
International Chess Day, celebrated annually on July 20, was established by FIDE to promote the educational and cultural value of the game. In Nigeria, the day continues to gain momentum, with more grassroots and youth chess initiatives emerging nationwide.