The Southeast Classic Chess Championship has commenced in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.
The event which commenced at New Eastern Comfort Hotels, Umuahia, Abia State, would bring together chess players and enthusiasts from across the Southeast region for a four-day competition.
The championship, hosted is hosted in a serene environment suited for high-level intellectual competition, attracted key stakeholders in the chess community and sports administration.
Among those present were the Southeast Zonal Chess Association Representative, Dr. Donald Onyekwere; Chess Patron and brother to the Governor, Chief Obioma Otti, who made a generous donation towards the development of chess; Chairman, Abia Chess Association, Hon. Lukeman Ukara; Board Member, Kelechi Agomuo; and member, Dicken Smart Udeagu.
Speaking at the event, the Director of Sports, Comrade Obioma George, highlighted the renewed visibility of Abia in the sporting community under the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti.
Recalling the recent Southeast Zonal Elimination Games in Imo State, he said Abia’s delegation was welcomed with the remark, ‘See Abia arriving in her full glory,’ reflecting the growing recognition of the state’s renewed commitment to sports development.
The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Jane Igwe, encouraged participants to explore Aba and patronise its renowned indigenous products, noting the importance of showcasing Aba’s products to the international market. She also urged athletes to embrace sportsmanship and celebrate the opportunity to compete regardless of the outcome.
The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Sir Nwaobilor Nwadinma Annaba, described the championship as a platform for identifying and nurturing emerging chess talents, expressing optimism that the next chess Grandmaster could emerge from this competition.
He further noted that the event provides a stepping stone for athletes aspiring to national and international competition.
Okezie Ihejirika, Chess Coach, in a bite of thanks appreciated the organisers, dignitaries, officials and participants for their contributions to the successful commencement of the championship.
The championship, our correspondent reports, reinforces Governor Otti’s administration’s commitment to broadening sports development and creating platforms for young Abians and athletes across the region to compete, develop and excel.