Kwara State has recorded a major achievement in chess, as Adeoti Oladapo Bolaji, popularly known as Posky, won a gold medal at the just-concluded South West National Chess Championship held at the University of Ilesa, Osun State.

Oladapo’s impressive performance earned him the gold medal in the Under-2000 category after seven rounds of competitive chess involving 127 registered players.

The achievement has been described as evidence of the positive impact of government sponsorship and support for sports development in Kwara State.

Oladapo was among six chess players who represented the state at the championship, where the team demonstrated discipline, sportsmanship and commitment throughout the competition.

Another Kwara representative, Mardiyah Kehinde Abdulsalam won a bronze medal after putting up a commendable performance against strong opposition, including International Masters and other highly rated players.

Her participation further highlighted the growing strength and potential of chess in Kwara State.

Other members of the state team, Habidat Sodiq, Durojaiye Boluwatife, Idris Malik and Kudirat Al-Imam, also displayed remarkable promise and determination, completing all seven rounds of the competition.

The team’s performance underscores the progress being made in chess development across the state and the emergence of promising talents capable of competing at national and international levels.

The achievements have further reinforced the importance of sustained government support, sponsorship and investment in sports development to nurture emerging talents and strengthen Kwara State’s position in competitive chess.