Team Bayelsa has emerged as the undisputed champions of the chess events at the 2025 Niger Delta Sports Festival, clinching gold medals in most categories, a clean sweep that has stunned fans and competitors alike.
Bayelsa’s male team proved their superiority from the outset, steadily collecting 30.5 total points to outpace Edo (27.5 points) and Delta (26.5 points). Their calculated play, consistency, and sharp endgame tactics ensured they remained ahead in the standings. The team’s ability to work as a cohesive unit, reading opponents and adjusting dynamically, was a key to their golden finish.
Even more dominant was the Bayelsa women’s team, which scored a tournament-best 32.5 points, far ahead of Edo (23.5 points) and Delta (22.5 points). The women set the tone early, with commanding victories on the top boards and unrelenting pressure across every round. Their victory not only solidified Bayelsa’s supremacy but also reflected the depth and talent emerging from their female chess ranks.
The rapid and blitz segments of the festival showcased some of the most electrifying chess of the event, with games turning on a dime and players tested under extreme time pressure. Bayelsa’s individual stars rose to the occasion:
Men’s Rapid: Patrick Uraih of Delta took gold, but Bayelsa’s Odeh Goodness claimed silver, showing his versatility across formats.
Women’s Rapid: Bayelsa completely swept the podium, Deborah Ebimobo-ere Quickpen (gold), Jessica Nkendlim Isede (silver), and Ebidise Sunshine Ebiakpo (bronze), a rare and remarkable achievement.
Men’s Blitz: Odeh Goodness struck again with another gold in blitz, joined by teammate Ayebaenemibarakere Domo Alagoa (silver), while Edo took the bronze.
Women’s Blitz: The golden girl of Bayelsa chess, Deborah Ebimobo-ere Quickpen, completed her double by winning gold again. She was joined on the podium by Ebidise Sunshine Ebiakpo (silver) and Elora Oise Iguehi from Rivers (bronze).
Quickpen’s performance was particularly outstanding, her calm demeanor, swift execution, and superior board vision marked her as one of the brightest stars of the entire festival.
The final results sheet, signed by Mr. Augustine Apemiye, Technical Lead for Chess, on April 5th, 2025, is more than just a formality, it is a historic record of Bayelsa’s unprecedented sweep.
Bayelsa’s dominance isn’t just about medals. It’s a reflection of years of investment in grassroots chess, dedicated coaching, and a rising culture that celebrates intellect and competitive excellence. The state’s chess federation, schools, and youth development programs all played crucial roles in nurturing this golden generation.
The Niger Delta Sports Festival is a platform for uncovering athletic and intellectual talent, and this year’s chess events have raised the bar. Bayelsa’s clean sweep has not only elevated their status in Nigerian chess but also inspired a renewed interest in the game across the region.
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