Oba of Benin Opens Royal Chess Classic, Backs 8-Year-Old Prodigy’s Education
Oba Ewuare II has opened the Royal Rapid Chess Classic 2026 at the Oba’s Palace in Benin City as part of activities marking his 10th coronation anniversary. The tournament features 126 players from 10 states. It began at the palace and will continue at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City. During the opening ceremony, the Oba played an exhibition match with eight-year-old chess player Emmanuella Iyobosa Omoragbon. Impressed by her performance, the Oba named Emmanuella a child of the palace and pledged support for her education, welfare and chess development. He also presented ₦2 million to players and visiting students, while Emmanuella’s mother, national chess champion Doris Omoragbon, received ₦250,000. The competition is scheduled to end on 21 November, with cash prizes across the Open, Under-20, Under-14 and Under-10 categories. Organisers are also seeking approval to establish an Oba Ewuare II Chess Club to train and discover young chess talents.
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