To commemorate International Chess Day, Chess for Social Impact—a flagship initiative of the Mendlife Global Foundation—hosted the Abuja Elite Chess Meetup on Sunday. The event celebrated the power of chess as a tool for empowerment while raising funds for Tennyson Olisa, one of Nigeria’s brightest young chess talents.

Held at Café One, Sterling Bank Plaza, the event brought together top chess players, enthusiasts, diplomats, philanthropists, and dignitaries under the theme “Every Move Counts”, emphasizing the importance of every step in the journey of young athletes.

“We are here to celebrate chess as a force for change. This year, our focus is on helping Tennyson Olisa, who’s making Nigeria proud,” said Oto-obong Mendie (Cassandra), Founder of Mendlife Global Foundation.

 “This is more than a tournament — it’s about transformation, visibility, and creating opportunities.”

Journey Worth Supporting

Tennyson Olisa, 22, from Delta State, recently qualified for the FIDE Grand Swiss in Uzbekistan and the World Cup in India. However, he faces major financial hurdles to attend, with an estimated cost of ₦54 million, covering travel, visas, training, coaching, media, and logistics.

“His story is not just about chess. It’s about potential, resilience, and representation,” Mendie added. “He has the talent and heart — now he needs our collective support.”

Tennyson’s brother and manager, Engr. Anthony Olisa, emphasized the importance of the fundraiser in giving Tennyson the visibility and backing he needs to succeed.

 “He started playing at 13 and has steadily risen to become one of Africa’s best. This event is a platform to showcase his journey and attract sponsors.”

Institutional Support and Calls for Sponsorship

Adeyinka Adewole, Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation, affirmed the Federation’s full support for Tennyson, describing this as a “dream come true” for any young chess player.

 “We, alongside the National Sports Commission, are united behind Tennyson’s mission. This will be his first major international outing.”

Mr. Ezekiel Bankole Ipinlaiye MD of Prog Loyd Realtors Ltd, called on Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, corporate sponsors, and well-meaning Nigerians to rally behind Tennyson, noting his many medals for Delta State and his potential to bring global honour to Nigeria.

A Day of Chess and Community

The event featured a blitz tournament, exhibition matches a simultaneous match with Tennyson playing seven elite players at once, and a silent auction of chess-themed art to raise additional funds.

In a heartfelt moment, Tennyson thanked attendees:

“Representing Nigeria has always been my dream. I’m grateful for this support. I promise to give my all.”

The highlight of the day was the presentation of prizes to the top three winners of the tournament, and recognition awards to sponsors and patrons. Notably, Mr. Victor Okoye, Vice Chairman of FCT SWAN and Editor at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), was honoured as a Patron of Chess for Social Impact for his contributions to promoting the foundation’s work.

So far, over ₦5 million has been raised, with cjhess for Social Impact continuing the campaign through online fundraisers and strategic partnership in the coming weeks.

“Every move counts — on the board and in life. Together, we can lift our youth to greatness,” Mendie concluded.