Okemakinde Toluwanimi has emerged champion of the maiden Benin under-25 Rapid Chess Tournament after scoring 8.5 points.
Okemakinde Toluwanimi clinched overall best position ahead of second placed Nyuima, Tersee Ferdinand who also scored the same 8.5 points .
Emmanuel Joy Idara also scored 8.5 points to settle for the third position in the 2-day tournament which held between 16-17, January 2026 at the Media Center of the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium in Benin.
The under-25 Rapid Chess Tournament, sponsored by Cynthia Madu and Thomas Oparaugo’ s organisation Cyntoco Service Ltd had two million Naira total cash prize splashed on the winners.
Speaking on the final day of the event, the secretary of the Edo State Chess Association Ms Irene Ajibola commended the sponsors of the competition Cyntoco Service Ltd for considering Benin for the competition. She said said that tournaments like this is good for the athletes as it keeps them active and enhances their skills.
