South East Zonal Chess Championship has Kicked off in Umuahia, Abia State.
Declaring the event open at Umuahia Township stadium, the Abia State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba, urged Nigerians to embrace the game of Chess, adding that it improves cognitive skills.
Represented by Mr. Eric Iheanacho Asomuagha, welcomed National Chess Federation delegates to Abia, commending them for identifying with Abia State Government.
He added that Gov Alex Otti-led administration is committed towards developing sports in the state especially Chess for the benefits of the society.
He assured them of a conducive environment while the championship lasts.
Speaking earlier, the Director of Sports Abia State, Comrade Obioma George lauded the body, assuring them of Abia state Council of Sports cooperation towards a memorable competition.
Represented by the Secretary to the Council, Comrade Jerry Basil Udeh, he noted that the game of Chess has come to stay in Abia, maintaining that Council would deploy everything at their disposal to develop the Game of Chess.
Contributing, the Chess, Abia state Coach, Mr. Okezie Ihejirika, said that Chess is a game that cut across all age categories, disclosing that it develop critical thinking and creativity.
Other management Staff present includes; the Technical Director Mary Nwachukwu Chima, Head of Department (HOD), Organizing, Victoria Umunna, HOD Combatant Games, Edith Anyanwu, among others.
