Tennyson Olisa has etched his name in African chess history by emerging as the winner of the inaugural Africa Super Zonal Chess Championship held in Lagos. The 22-year-old Nigerian sensation put on an impressive display, finishing with a commanding 7½ points from nine rounds, claiming the prestigious title in grand style.
This victory follows his remarkable performance at the Zone 4.2 Championship, where he secured a silver medal, but it was at the Super Zonal Championship that Olisa truly demonstrated his brilliance. His play was characterized by sharp tactics and calm under pressure, displaying a level of maturity and skill well beyond his years. The triumph not only earned him the Africa Super Zonal Chess Championship title but also secured his qualification for the next stage of the 2025 FIDE World Cup qualification process.
With this victory, Olisa will now face the bronze medalist from the African Individual Chess Championship for a chance to enter the global competition. Additionally, Olisa’s success has earned him a place in the highly sought-after FIDE Grand Swiss Tournament, one of the most prestigious events in the chess world.
In a statement after his final match, Olisa expressed his pride and gratitude, saying, “This means the world to me. Winning this title on home soil is something I’ll never forget. I am proud to represent Nigeria and Africa at the next level.”
In the women’s category, Algeria’s Lina Nassr emerged victorious on a tie-breaker after finishing joint second with Nigeria’s Abdulrahman Akintoye, both of whom ended the tournament with 6½ points. However, it was Olisa who stood out as the top performer across all categories, cementing his place as the best player of the competition.
The championship was hosted by the African Chess Confederation, with significant support from the Nigerian government and various sporting authorities. The event marks a significant milestone for zonal chess in Africa, opening a new chapter for the sport on the continent.
Nadezhda Marochkin, the Vice President of the African Chess Confederation, congratulated the winners and participants, praising their exceptional skills and sportsmanship. “We are immensely proud of every player who took part in this inaugural event,” Marochkin said. “Their commitment, passion, and integrity embody the spirit of African chess.”
Marochkin also expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government, the Nigeria Sports Commission, and the Nigeria Chess Federation for their support and hospitality in hosting the tournament. “This was more than just a competition,” she said. “It was a celebration of unity, talent, and the bright future of zonal chess across Africa.”