…As Association Targets National Sports Festival Glory
In a major boost to mind sports development, the Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports has officially inaugurated the Enugu State Chess Association, marking the first formal constitution of a Chess body in the State’s history. The inauguration, held in Enugu, Tuesday 1st July, 2025, was presided over by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ekweremadu, Esq, who described the occasion as both historic and timely.
“To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time we are witnessing the formal constitution of a Chess Association/ Board in Enugu State,” said Ekweremadu. “I must commend you – the pioneer Board members – for your foresight and initiative. With your wealth of experience, I am confident that Chess in Enugu is set on a firm and progressive path.”
Standing: Dr Johnny Onwumere, Chairman of the Enugu Chess Association, introducing members of his team.
The Commissioner further pledged the full support of the State Government for the Association’s activities, particularly its ongoing effort to introduce the game of Chess in Secondary Schools across the State.
“We are fully committed to partnering with you. Beyond moral support, we are ready to offer practical help, especially in establishing Chess Clubs in schools and strengthening existing structures,” he affirmed.
Leadership of Enugu Chess Association (ECA) with the Principal, teachers and students of Queen’s School Enugu on Monday. (Photo credit: GMTNewsng)
Dr. Johnny Onwumere, a veteran Chess promoter and pioneer Chairman of the Enugu State Chess Association, expressed enthusiasm about the road ahead. In his remarks, he highlighted the efforts of the Chess Conclave, a Chess-focused Section in Enugu Sports Club, which has spearheaded activities leading to this formal recognition.
“The Chess Conclave was instituted in 2010 and has lived up to expectations,” Onwumere said. “In 2024, we successfully organized a Chess competition that produced a champion and runner-up, both of whom were honoured by the Chairman of Enugu Sports Club in December 2024. It’s this momentum that we’re building on now.”
He acknowledged the team behind the success, including Sir Clement Okwor, former Head of Service and Deputy Leader of the Chess Conclave; Dr. J.B.C. Emenike, the Secretary and arbiter; Charlie Ozoekwem, sponsor of the 2024 tournament; Architect Chuba Nwadiogbu; Mr. Gill Eze, a retired Director of Sports; and the Executive Chairman of Enugu Sports Club, Ifeanyi Nweke Eaq., who is also a member of the Chess Conclave Section.
L-R: Dr. Onwumere, Lloyd Ekweremadu Esq., Ifeanyi Nweke Eaq., Sir Clem Okwor
“These individuals continue to support us both morally and financially. Their collective vision is to promote Chess in Secondary Schools,” Onwumere added.
So far, the Association has secured the approval of the Post Primary Schools Management Board (PPSMB) to begin work in nine pilot schools, including College of the Immaculate Conception (CIC), Queen’s School, Holy Rosary College, St Patrick’s College, Emene, and Federal Government College (FGC), Enugu, among others.
Earlier this week, members of the Association visited Queen’s School, donated Chess equipment, and encouraged students to form a Chess Club and begin inter-house competitions. According to the group, similar outreach efforts will take place in all Schools selected in the first phase of the program.
“Our goal is to have a strong team of young players representing Enugu at the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival in 2026, which Enugu State will host, and beyond,” Onwumere said. “We are not just teaching Chess; we are building thinkers and strategic minds.”
Delivering his acceptance speech, Dr. Onwumere, the newly inaugurated Chairman of the Enugu State Chess Association, praised the Ministry for its open-mindedness and pledged to make the Association a source of pride for the State.
“We are witnessing a revival of the Game of Chess in Enugu. With the mandate given to us, we are committed to taking Chess to every school and building a formidable team for the future,” he said.
Also present at the inauguration were key officers from the Ministry, including Ephraim Ochomma, Director of Coaching; Ann Ibekwe, Deputy Director of Organizing; and Dan Onwuegbuna, Director of Information.
In his goodwill message, the Executive Chairman of Enugu Sports Club, Ifeanyi Nweke Esq., expressed optimism that the State would reap the fruits of its renewed focus on sports infrastructure and development.
“Enugu Sports Club is not what it used to be. Our facilities have improved significantly, and our membership has grown to about 525,000,” he said. “We thank the Ministry for its continued support and look forward to even more collaboration.”
He added that, with the backing of and in alignment with the innovative vision of Governor Peter Mbah who also serves as President of the Club – the Club is undergoing continuous transformation, marked by enhanced aesthetics, renewed vibrancy, and an elevated experience for members and visitors alike.
As Enugu positions itself as a hub for chess and youth intellectual development, this initiative stands as a clear testament to what proactive sports governance and grassroots engagement can achieve. GMTNewsng
