The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), has successfully concluded the maiden edition of the National School Board Games. The two-day chess tournament, held at the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) Multi-Purpose Hall, ended on Tuesday, 11th February , 2025.

The competition featured U-9, U-12, U-15, and U-18 categories, with over 300 pupils and students representing various states across the country.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Honorable Commissioner for Ministry Basic and Secondary Education Lagos State , Mr. Jamiu Ali-Balogun, applauded all participants for their outstanding performances and commended the organizers for providing a platform that promotes mental development and healthy competition. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to integrating sports into education as a tool for cognitive and character development.

"Chess is a game of strategy and intellect, and it aligns perfectly with our vision of raising well-rounded individuals capable of critical thinking and leadership in the future,” he stated.

The Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support in transforming the basic education sector in Lagos State. He highlighted the governor’s commitment to innovative learning initiatives, including extracurricular activities that has enhance pupils' intellectual capacity.

"Everyone is a winner here today. We encourage participants who did not win a trophy or medal to see this tournament not just as a competition but as an opportunity to sharpen their cognitive skills and build friendships with peers from different states," Dr. Shittu remarked.

The President of the NSSF, Mrs. Olabisi Joseph, expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration with LASUBEB, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in nurturing young talents.She further noted that the tournament marks the beginning of a broader vision, with plans to introduce more board games such as Scrabble and Monopoly in future editions.

Winners from this event will represent Nigeria at the International School Sports Federation (ISF) and African School Sports Games in Serbia and Morocco later this year,” she added.

Trophies, medals, and certificates were awarded to the top winners in each category:U-9:Female: Dafiewharen Divine (Lagos State), Male: Dominic Duduefa (Bayelsa State), U-12: Female: Patrick Florence (Lagos State), Male: Joseph Bamidele; U-15: Female: Ebiakpo Treasure (Bayelsa, State) Male: Goodness (Bayelsa State); U-18:Female: Ebiakpo Ebidise Sunshine (Bayelsa State)Male: Nruima Tersse Ferdinand (Lagos State).