Ado Salisu
To mark International Chess Day, Chess for Social Impact, a flagship of Mendlife Global Foundation, hosted the Abuja Elite Chess Meetup, blending competition with a fundraiser for Nigeria’s rising chess star, Tennyson Olisa.
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The event, held at Cafe One, Sterling Bank Plaza, Abuja brought together top players, enthusiasts, and philanthropists to support chess as a tool for unity and empowerment.
This year’s theme, “Every Move Counts,” reflected the game’s strategy and the importance of each step in a young athlete’s journey.
Founder Oto-obong Mendie (Cassandra) said the event was more than a tournament; it was about transformation through chess.
“We are here to celebrate chess as a force for change. This year, our focus is on helping Tennyson Olisa, who’s making Nigeria proud,” she said.
Tennyson needs support for his journey to the FIDE Grand Swiss in Uzbekistan and the World Cup in India — a trip requiring around ₦54 million in total.
The costs include visa travel to Egypt, flights, coaching, training, media, and hospitality. Mendie said Nigeria must give him a strong presence globally.
Tennyson, 22, from Delta State, recently qualified for the prestigious FIDE Grand Swiss but faces serious financial hurdles.
“His journey highlights the struggles gifted Nigerian players face. He has the talent and heart — now he needs support,” Mendie added.
His elder brother and manager, Engr. Anthony Olisa said the event aimed to give Tennyson greater visibility and attract sponsors.
Tennyson began playing chess at 13. His family supported him early, recognising his talent and potential to achieve greatness.
“He’s doing amazing things for Nigeria and is now among Africa’s best. He’ll represent us globally,” Anthony said.
He added, “This event helps us showcase him and, by God’s grace, find more sponsors for his journey.”
Anthony appealed to sponsors to support Tennyson’s dreams, saying he urgently needs opportunities to grow.
The Nigeria Chess Federation’s Vice President, Adeyinka Adewole, said they fully back Tennyson and believe in his abilities.
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“This will be his first major international outing. It’s a dream come true for any young player,” Adewole said.
Adewole added that the federation, the National Sports Commission, and Nigerians are united behind Tennyson’s mission.
Mr. Ezekiel Bankole Ipinlaiye, the managing director of Prog Loyd Realtors Limited, also urged the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, along with private and corporate sponsors, philanthropists, and well-meaning Nigerians, to support the chess prodigy.
He noted that Tennyson, a proud indigene of Delta State, has won numerous medals for the state and is poised to bring honour and pride to Nigeria on the global stage.
The Abuja event included a blitz tournament, exhibition match, and mentorship session where Tennyson played seven elite players simultaneously.
A silent auction of chess-themed artwork also raised money for his trip, coaching, and accommodation.
Tennyson, visibly emotional, thanked supporters. “Representing Nigeria has always been my dream. I’ll give my all,” he said.
Dignitaries, diplomats, business leaders, and former champions attended, pledging their support for the young chess star.
The foundation raised over ₦5 million during the event — nearly halfway to the ₦54 million target.
International Chess Day, celebrated on July 20, was established by FIDE to promote chess and its educational value.
In Nigeria, the day is gaining traction, with more grassroots and youth programs emerging nationwide.
As the event ended, Mendie encouraged Nigerians to back young talents across fields.
“Every move counts — on the board and in life. Together, we can lift our youth to greatness,” she said.
Chess for Social Impact plans to continue fundraising through online campaigns and partnerships in the coming weeks.
Nigerians at home and abroad are urged to support Tennyson as he prepares for a global stage.
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Highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes to the top three winners of the tournament, along with awards to sponsors and patrons of the foundation.
Mr. Victor Okoye, Vice Chairman of FCT SWAN and an Editor with the News Agency of Nigeria, one of the awardees, was honoured with a Patron of Chess for Social Impact award in recognition of his significant contributions to promoting the foundation’s activities in the media.