Nigeria has once again demonstrated its sporting strength beyond football after emerging champion of the 16th African Scrabble Championship in Monrovia, Liberia, with Abdulmumin Jimoh claiming the individual title.
Jimoh delivered an impressive comeback to finish at the top of a 110-player field, recording 23 victories and a cumulative spread of 1,760 points. His performance helped Nigeria secure the Best Country award ahead of Kenya and hosts Liberia.
The achievement was even sweeter because Nigeria completed an all-Nigerian top three. George Ezinore finished second with 23 wins and a spread of 1,005 points, while Emmanuel Umujose claimed third place.
Jimoh’s journey to the title was far from straightforward. He ended the opening day in 12th position, climbed to third on the second day and later slipped to sixth as the competition intensified.
Rather than surrendering to the pressure, the Nigerian player produced a strong finish. A crucial victory in round 31 strengthened his position, and although he lost his final game to Ezinore, his overall points spread was enough to secure the continental crown.
Nigeria’s success also highlighted the depth of talent in the country’s Scrabble community. The team’s achievement is a reminder that Nigerian athletes continue to excel in sports requiring concentration, strategy and mental endurance.
In the women’s category, Ghana’s Betty Kyeremateng emerged as the best female player with 20 victories, while Nigeria’s Sophia Ekeruche finished second with 18 wins.
The championship is another proud moment for Nigerian sports, with Jimoh and his teammates bringing home both individual and team honours.
