As part of activities marking the 10th coronation anniversary of Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, chess champions from home and abroad will compete in a day-long tournament on Saturday in Benin city.

Tagged the “Royal Rapid Chess Classic 2026,” the event is open to men and women in the Under-20, Under-14 and Under-10 categories.

The seven-round rapid tournament runs from 9am to 6pm on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Prof. Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road, Benin city. Awards and souvenirs will be presented at the Palace of the Benin Monarch where the event is also expected to kick off.

The event is organised by AABV Ltd under the supervision of Mr. Lucky Imasuen, Chairman of the 10th Coronation Anniversary Celebration Committee.

According to the organisers, the winner takes home the star prize of N350,000, while the best Edo indigene and best veteran players will each receive N50,000.

The chess tournament, a football competition and other sporting events are part of the build-up to the anniversary, which climaxes on Tuesday, October 20.