Tersee Ferdinand, a 17-year-old Nigerian chess prodigy, has achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the nation’s youngest-ever National Chess Champion. His victory at the prestigious National Chess Championships in December 2024, a tournament that draws the best chess minds in the country, catapulted him into the national spotlight and solidified his position as a rising star in the world of chess. This achievement is even more impressive considering the numerous challenges Tersee has overcome, including being geographically separated from his parents who reside in Abuja, while he pursues his education and chess career in another city.
Tersee’s journey to championship glory has been shaped by a series of influential figures. His initial introduction to the intricacies of chess came under the tutelage of Eluekezi Chukwuwikeh, affectionately known as Chuks, a renowned chess coach in Nigeria. Chuks recognized Tersee’s innate talent and provided him with the foundational training that laid the groundwork for his future success. Recognizing the importance of a balanced development, Chuks entrusted Tersee to the care of Babatunde Ogunsiku, a manager who would oversee his overall development, ensuring he received the necessary resources and support to pursue both his education and his chess ambitions.
Ogunsiku’s connection with Olumide Akindayini, a chess coach, instructor, and national arbiter, proved pivotal in Tersee’s trajectory. In 2022, Ogunsiku approached Akindayini, seeking a suitable educational institution that would not only offer Tersee a quality education but also nurture his burgeoning chess career. This led to Tersee’s enrollment at Platform School in the summer of 2024, where he received a scholarship and an environment conducive to honing his chess skills. This arrangement provided the stability and support that allowed Tersee to flourish.
The impact of this supportive environment was evident in Tersee’s performance leading up to the national championship. He participated in preparatory tournaments, gaining valuable experience and sharpening his skills. This preparation culminated in a thrilling showdown in the finals of the National Chess Championships against Abdulrahman Akintoye. After a grueling 11 rounds, with both players tied at 7.5 points, the championship was decided in a tiebreak, which Tersee ultimately won, securing his place in Nigerian chess history. Akindayini credits Tersee’s success to the stable and nurturing environment provided by Platform School, allowing him to focus on his training and develop his skills.
However, despite his remarkable achievements, Tersee’s journey has not been without its challenges. Living away from his family in Abuja, he relies heavily on the support system provided by his coaches and the school. Akindayini, who has witnessed Tersee’s dedication firsthand, recounts being amazed by the young chess player’s commitment to training, often spending seven to eight hours each day honing his skills.
While Tersee celebrates his national title, he remains focused on his ultimate ambition: becoming a Grandmaster. This lofty goal, however, is not without its obstacles, the most significant being the perennial issue of funding. Akindayini highlights the importance of international exposure for aspiring Grandmasters, emphasizing the need to participate in Grandmaster-nominated tournaments, which often require substantial financial resources for travel and other expenses. Securing funding to enable Tersee to compete in international tournaments, such as the African Junior Chess Championship, remains a primary concern for his support team.
Despite the financial hurdles, Tersee remains committed to his chess journey. Even during exam periods, he diligently makes time to train, showcasing his exceptional dedication to mastering the game. This unwavering commitment, coupled with the support of his coaches, school, and family, underscores his potential to achieve his Grandmaster aspirations. While chess may not yet be an Olympic sport, Tersee’s achievements offer a glimmer of hope for Nigeria’s representation on the global chess stage. With continued support and the right opportunities, Tersee Ferdinand has the potential to become a true ambassador for Nigerian chess and inspire a new generation of chess players in the country.
