Nigeria Chess Federation (NCF) on Monday honoured one of the pioneers of the game in Nigeria, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Jubril Ayinla rtd. into the federation’s Hall of Fame.

The award, which held in Lekki, Lagos State, was part of activities marking the 2023 Nigeria National Chess Championships.

Ayinla was inducted alongside other chess greats such as Mr. Emmanuel Omuku, Mrs. Etokowo Ime, Mr. Obafunmilayo Agusto, Mr. Tajudeen Oyeneyin and the founder of Chess Federation in Nigeria, Dr Sylvanus Ebigwe.

Responding, Ayinla, former Minister of Health and former Minister of Commerce Trade and Tourism described chess as his life.

“Chess is my life, and I still played chess before coming to the ceremony today. We started playing chess from a basement where there was no light. Chess is a passion and part of life.

“I left chess sometimes because my boss, the then Head of State, thought I was paying more attention to chess than my military assignments. Otherwise, I couldn’t have become a Chief of Naval Staff (CNS).

“I know of my colleague who spent eight years in the university instead of four. I also taught all my children chess but my wife stopped them from playing because of me,” he said.

Ayinla said playing chess had contributed much to his progress and endeavours in life, and advised that chess should be made a compulsory subject in schools.

“Chess has been my life and has affected everything I do in life. So, kudos to those that have chess clubs in their schools.

“Chess is maths, science and art all rolled into one. So, what we learnt in chess, no one can teach. The aspect of life chess introduces is much to be desired.

“Some of the successes in my career were due to the fact that I played chess, it shows in the way I used to plan my war games and other aspects of military life.

“I will recommend chess to all parents, infact, chess should be taught in all schools especially primary and secondary schools. I will continue to give part of my life to chess sponsorships,” he said.

The event also had in attendance former champions such as Mr Fola Akintola, Arc Theophilus Caiafas, Mr Rotimi Dasaolu, Mrs Bunmi Olape and Odion Aikhoje.

The dignitaries at the event included the President of NCF, DIG Sani Usman rtd, Vice President, Prince Adeyinka Adewole, Secretary, Mrs Olabowale Alebiosu and Technical Director, Mr Bode Durotoye.

The 2023 Nigeria National Chess Championships will feature 12 players.