Nigeria Targets World Scrabble Glory With 21-Player Squad
Nigeria Confirms Team for 2026 World Youth Scrabble Championship
Top Young Talents Set for Nairobi Challenge
NIGERIA has officially unveiled a 21-player team for the 2026 World Youth Scrabble Championship, as the country’s brightest young word game talents prepare to compete against the world’s best in Nairobi, Kenya, from 7 to 9 August.
The squad reflects a blend of proven performers and exciting emerging players expected to continue Nigeria’s tradition of excellence in international Scrabble competitions.
Among the headline names are Sophia Ebube Ekeruche, the reigning 2025 World Best Female Player, and Abdulqodus Aliu, whose impressive performance at the last edition saw him narrowly miss out on a world title.
Other players selected include Khalid Olosun, Yusuf AbdulSalam, Roseline and Samuel Emelike, Victoria Chukwuemeka, Olamide Hassan, Khalifa Bello, Matilda Wilcox, Chosen Johnson, Victor Ayanwale, Farzana Kaka, Aneef Kelani, Abidah Fatai, Covenant Akamabong Okoridem, and the Onazi siblings—Saviour, Salvation and Triumph.
Camping Programme to Fine-Tune Team
The Nigeria Scrabble Federation said the team emerged through a rigorous online qualification tournament coordinated by the federation’s technical department.
National Youth Coach Hassan Olujoko revealed that the players would participate in an intensive training camp before travelling to Kenya, allowing coaches to strengthen tactical awareness and team preparation.
A seven-member technical and administrative crew will also accompany the squad to provide coaching, logistics and player support throughout the tournament.
Eyes on Another International Success
NSF President Engineer Bright Idahosa confirmed that the delegation will depart Nigeria on 5 August, giving players adequate time to adjust to conditions before competition begins.
The championship is expected to attract over 200 competitors representing more than 40 countries, highlighting the event’s growing international profile.
Backed by the National Sports Commission, Nigeria will head into the tournament determined to build on its strong pedigree in youth Scrabble and compete for major honours against the world’s leading young players.
