ChessMasters is Africa’s largest annual school chess tournament, designed to equip students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

ChessMasters is a collaboration between KEY academy, Chess in Slums Africa, and Eko Hotel & Suites.

The tournament will be held on Saturday, 3rd May 2025, from 8 AM to 5 PM at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos.

ChessMasters is more than a tournament - it’s a movement. It makes chess accessible to students from all backgrounds while promoting 21st-century skills.

This year, 100 schools will compete, with 500 participants battling for the top spot.

Students aged 6 to 11 from primary schools in Lagos can enter

No, ChessMasters welcomes both beginners and experienced players.

Complete the online registration form, make payment, and start preparing!

Yes, registration closes once all 100 school slots are filled. Early registration is encouraged!

The registration fee is N10,000 (Ten Thousand Naira) per school.

It includes access to training resources, tournament participation, and event-day activities.

Currently, ChessMasters is open to primary schools only

Players will compete in multiple rounds using the Swiss system, where they are paired based on their performance. Everyone plays all rounds, and final standings will be determined by accumulated points.

ChessMasters follows a rapid chess format, with time controls suitable for young players.

No, all players compete in the same category, but pairings will be designed to ensure fair and balanced matchups.

Standard chess scoring applies: 1 point for a win, 0.5 for a draw, and 0 for a loss.

Tiebreakers will be decided using the Buchholz system, followed by head-to-head results if necessary.

Yes, chess clocks will be used to ensure fair time control for all matches.

Yes, but they will have designated spectator areas to avoid distractions.

Yes, registered schools receive training materials and guidelines to help players prepare.

While no official workshops are provided, schools can organise their own training sessions using ChessMasters resources.

Yes! Using online platforms like Lichess and Chess.com is encouraged for practice.

Participants should bring water bottles, and a readiness to compete! Chess sets and clocks will be provided.

Lunch and refreshments will be provided for participants and coaches. Spectators may purchase food at the venue.

Participants can wear either branded team t-shirts or their school uniform

No, coaching during matches is strictly prohibited.

The event will have trained security personnel and medical staff on standby.

The winning team will receive ₦3 million, runner-up ₦2 million, and third place ₦1 million. There will also be other non-cash prizes for participants

Yes! Prizes will not just be awarded for first place, but also second and third place.

Yes! ChessMasters will hold annually, with plans to expand across the continent, making it the largest and most impactful school chess tournament in Africa