By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) has unveiled a 21-player squad for the 2026 World Youth Scrabble Championship, with the team set to compete in Nairobi, Kenya, from August 7 to 9.
The championship, which will be held at the Trademark Hotel, is expected to attract more than 200 young players from over 40 countries, providing a global stage for the world’s top youth Scrabble talents.
Leading Nigeria’s campaign is 2025 World Best Female Player, Sophia Ebube Ekeruche, alongside Abdulqodus Aliu, who narrowly missed winning the world title in his category at the previous edition.
The squad also includes highly rated players such as Khalid Olosun, Yusuf AbdulSalam, Roseline Emelike, Saviour, Salvation and Triumph Onazi, Samuel Emelike, Victoria Chukwuemeka, Olamide Hassan, Khalifa Bello, Matilda Wilcox, Chosen Johnson, Victor Ayanwale, Farzana Kaka, Aneef Kelani, Abidah Fatai and Covenant Akamabong Okoridem.
The team emerged from 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 disclosed that the players would undergo at least one week of intensive camping to sharpen their skills before departing for Kenya. He added that a seven-member backroom staff would accompany the team to provide technical and administrative support throughout the championship.
NSF President, Engineer Bright Idahosa, said the Nigerian contingent is scheduled to depart for Nairobi on August 5, allowing the players sufficient time to acclimatize ahead of the competition.
He also welcomed the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC), which has assured the federation of government backing to ensure Nigeria’s successful participation at the prestigious tournament.
With a blend of experienced champions and emerging talents, Nigeria will be aiming to reinforce its status as one of the world’s leading Scrabble nations when the World Youth Scrabble Championship begins in Nairobi.
