By Ado Salisu
The Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) has unveiled a 21-player squad for the 2026 World Youth Scrabble Championship scheduled to take place from August 7 to 9 at the Trademark Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya.
Nigeria heads into the tournament with high hopes, banking on a blend of proven champions and emerging talents as the country seeks to make a strong statement against the world’s best young wordsmiths.
The team will be spearheaded by 2025 World Best Female Player, Sophia Ebube Ekeruche, alongside Abdulqodus Aliu, who came agonisingly close to claiming the world title in his category last year.
Also named in the squad are several highly rated players, including Khalid Olosun, Yusuf AbdulSalam, Roseline Emelike, and the talented Onazi siblings — Saviour, Salvation and Triumph.
Other notable names include Samuel Emelike, Victoria Chukwuemeka, Olamide Hassan, Khalifa Bello, Matilda Wilcox, Chosen Johnson, Victor Ayanwale, Farzana Kaka, Aneef Kelani, Abidah Fatai, Covenant Akamabong Okoridem, among others.
The squad was selected following a rigorous two-day online qualification tournament organised by the NSF’s National Technical Director, Khaleel Adedeji, with support from National Youth Coach Hassan Olujoko.
Olujoko revealed that the players will embark on a minimum one-week training camp to fine-tune their preparations before departing for Kenya.
He also confirmed that a seven-member backroom staff will accompany the team to provide technical and administrative support throughout the championship.
NSF President Engineer Bright Idahosa disclosed that the Nigerian contingent is scheduled to leave for Nairobi on August 5, giving the team adequate time to settle ahead of the competition.
The championship is expected to attract more than 200 players from over 40 countries, setting the stage for a highly competitive contest among the world’s brightest young scrabble talents.
In a major boost to Nigeria’s preparations, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has assured the Federation of comprehensive government support to ensure a successful participation at the prestigious global event.
With a squad packed with experience, youth and proven ability, Nigeria will be aiming to reinforce its reputation as one of the world’s leading Scrabble nations when the championship gets underway in Nairobi.
