Nigeria has won the 16th African Scrabble Championship in Monrovia, Liberia, after Abdulmumin Jimoh claimed the individual title and led an all-Nigerian podium.

The country also secured the Best Country award ahead of Kenya and hosts Liberia.

Jimoh finished with 23 wins and a cumulative spread of 1,760 points, edging reigning Nigerian champion George Ezinore, who also recorded 23 victories but finished with a spread of 1,005 points.

Emmanuel Umujose placed third to complete Nigeria’s sweep of the podium.

Jimoh recovered from a 12th-place finish on the opening day to clinch the title.

A crucial victory over Larry Etuwa in round 31 strengthened his position, and his superior spread proved decisive despite a final-round loss to Ezinore.

Nigeria Scrabble Federation President Bright Idahosa praised the players for their performance and commended the National Sports Commission for its support.

“I commend our players and the Federation in general for the determination shown throughout this tourney and for flying Nigeria’s flag high on the continental stage,” Idahosa said.

He also thanked Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director-General Bukola Olopade for their support, noting that Olopade regularly called to check on the team’s results and progress.

In the women’s category, Ghana’s Betty Kyeremateng emerged as Best Female Player with 20 wins from 32 games.

Nigeria’s Sophia Ekeruche finished second with 18 wins.

The statement was signed by Kola Daniel, special assistant on media in the Office of the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, on Oct. 26, 2026.