Nigerian athletes put up fine showing at African Scrabble Champ
The President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, Engineer Bright Idahosa had showered praises on the athletes for leading the country to the African Scrabble Championship in Monrovia, Liberia
Abdulmumin Jimoh was the star of the tournament, producing stunning performances to further establish his importance to Nigeria.
He produced a remarkable comeback to top the 110-player field, finishing with 23 wins and a cumulative spread of 1,760 points.
The reigning Nigerian national champion, George Ezinore, also recorded 23 victories but settled for second place with a spread of 1,005 points, while Emmanuel Umujose completed an all-Nigerian podium in third position.
Jimoh finished the opening day in 12th position with five wins before climbing to third on day two.
Despite dropping to sixth on day three, he mounted a late charge to move into contention for the title.
A crucial victory over Larry Etuwa in round 31 strengthened his position at the top of the standings. Although he lost his final game to Ezinore, Jimoh’s accumulated spread proved decisive in securing the continental crown.
His triumph continues Nigeria’s strong tradition in African Scrabble and sees him succeed clubmate Oluwatimilehin Doko, who won the championship in Kigali two years ago.
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Doko endured a difficult campaign in Monrovia after falling ill during the competition.
Idahosa was full of praise for the athletes for winning the championship, while also crediting the National Sports Commission for its support to the team.
He said: “I commend our players and the Federation in general for the determination shown throughout this tourney and for flying Nigeria’s flag high on the continental stage. This achievement reflects the talent, commitment and competitive spirit within Nigerian Scrabble.”
“I also sincerely appreciate the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and the Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, for their support. The Director General consistently called to enquire about our results, assess our progress and discuss the way forward. This demonstrates genuine passion and intentional leadership in Nigerian sports.”
In the women’s category, Ghana’s Betty Kyeremateng emerged Best Female Player after recording 20 wins from 32 games.
Nigeria’s Sophia Ekeruche, recognized as the World’s Best Female Junior Player in 2025 and 2026, finished second in the female standings with 18 wins.
Nigeria’s success extended beyond the individual standings, with the country claiming the Best Country award to underline its dominance at the continental championship.
