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Nigeria’s continued dominance of African Scrabble has renewed calls for increased investment in the sport, with the Nigeria Scrabble Federation highlighting the need for stronger financial backing to sustain the country’s winning record.
The appeal followed Team Nigeria’s performance at the 16th African Scrabble Championship in Monrovia, Liberia, where the country retained its continental supremacy and secured the Best Country award.
Abdulmumin Jimoh led the Nigerian contingent by winning the individual championship. His compatriots George Ezinore and Emmanuel Umujose completed an all-Nigerian top three, finishing second and third respectively.
NSF President Bright Idahosa said the assistance provided by the National Sports Commission played a significant role in the team’s participation. He acknowledged the commission’s financial intervention, particularly in helping the players meet their travel requirements for the competition.
Despite the latest success, Idahosa maintained that sustainable funding would be necessary to expand the sport and prepare Nigerian players for future international tournaments. He encouraged private companies and other potential sponsors to support the federation’s activities.
Nigeria’s performance also highlighted the emergence of younger talents, including 15-year-old Sophia Ekeruche, who finished second in the women’s category with 18 victories. Ghanaian player Betty Kyeremateng won the women’s title after recording 20 victories from 32 games.
National team coach Prince Sir Anthony Colum attributed the outcome to effective preparation, technical guidance and improvements made by the players before the championship. He also acknowledged the importance of government assistance in reducing the financial difficulties that have affected the team’s participation in previous competitions.
Jimoh, meanwhile, expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparation and performance, noting that the players had worked on their weaknesses before travelling to Liberia.
With Nigeria having won 15 of the 16 editions of the African Scrabble Championship, the federation believes greater investment in grassroots development, training and international participation will be crucial to maintaining the country’s position at the top of the continent.
