Quickpen bags African junior chess champs Masters title

Kindly share this story:

Nigeria’s rising chess talent Deborah Quickpen capped an impressive continental campaign after winning the silver medal at the African Youth Chess Championship in Zimbabwe, a performance that also earned her the Woman FIDE Master title, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Quickpen finished as first runner-up in a highly competitive field at the junior championship, with the title officially conferred by the world chess governing body, FIDE.

Her showing marked a major milestone in her young career and reinforced Nigeria’s growing profile on the African chess scene.

Throughout the tournament, Quickpen displayed tactical maturity, an attribute that set her apart against some of the continent’s most promising young players.

Her silver medal finish rounded off a strong year and positioned her as one of Nigeria’s brightest prospects in international chess.

Her success came as Nigeria’s youth team delivered a commendable overall performance at the 2025 Africa Youth Chess Championships in Harare, with players such as Michelle Nwankwo, Jason Nwankwo, Zita Agusionu, Olakitan Elegbede and Adeola Elegbede also competing across various age categories.

The National Sports Commission praised the Nigerian contingent for their displays, highlighting their tactical intelligence, mental resilience and sportsmanship against elite opposition from across Africa.

The commission also acknowledged the leadership of Ibrahim Dankwambo, president of the Chess Federation of Nigeria, and the federation’s board for their sustained efforts in developing the game nationwide.

Speaking on the team’s performance, Director General of the NSC, Bukola Olopade, said, “Beyond podium finishes and match results, the National Sports Commission is proud of the discipline, character, and national pride displayed by the young athletes throughout the championship.”

He added, “Their achievements is a clear indication of deliberate preparation and the continued positioning of chess as a vital grassroots sport within Nigeria’s sports development framework.”

Kindly share this story:

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]

URGENT UPDATE: Nigerians can now invest #2.5million on premium domains and profit about #17-#25Million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rater then Wonder, Click here to find out how it works (Be sure to ask for evidence of clients that have benefitted from this).

Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!

Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.