Kogi State has recorded an impressive performance at the just-concluded 2026 North Central Chess Festival in Abuja, winning three gold medals through its outstanding chess players.
A statement by the Information Officer, Kogi State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, James Sani has revealed.
The gold medalists are Ichado Michael, Jeminiwa Bernice, and Muhammad Aisha, who emerged victorious in their respective categories to bring honour to Kogi State.
Reacting to the development, the Kogi State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Aridaojo Anyebe, said the achievement was another indication that the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is committed to the development of sports and youth in the state.
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The Commissioner said the present administration has demonstrated a strong passion for sports and youth development, noting that the success recorded by the Kogi State chess team at the 2026 North Central Chess Festival was a reflection of the support and encouragement provided by the Governor.
Hon. Anyebe commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, for his quality leadership and unwavering support for sporting activities in the state. He assured the Governor that the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development would continue to work towards producing more success stories in sports and youth development.
The Commissioner also congratulated the athletes for their outstanding performance and encouraged them not to relent in their efforts. He assured them of the continued support of the Kogi State Government as they strive to excel in their sporting careers.
Hon. Anyebe further commended the team’s coach, Innocent Ichado, for his dedication and commitment to the development of chess in Kogi State, urging him to sustain the tempo and continue producing athletes capable of representing the state successfully at national and international competitions.
Speaking on the achievement, Chess Coach Innocent Ichado, expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo, and the Commissioner, Hon Anyebe, for their continued support and encouragement to the chess team.
Ichado promised that the team would continue to work hard and strive to make Kogi State proud in future competitions.
The three gold medals further underscore the growing potential of chess in Kogi State and the positive impact of sustained investment in youth and sports development.
