Odita Sunday 
By Alex Monye
Nigeria has emerged champion of the 2026 African Scrabble Championship, reaffirming the country’s dominance in the sport on the continent.
The 16th edition of the competition, which held in Monrovia, Liberia, from October 22 to 25, brought together 110 players from across Africa to compete for individual and national honours.
Nigerian player Abdulmumin Jimoh emerged the individual champion after recording 23 victories and a cumulative spread of 1,760 points. His performance was particularly impressive, having finished the opening day of the tournament in 12th position before rallying to claim the title.
Nigeria’s dominance was further demonstrated by George Ezinore, who finished second with 23 wins and a spread of 1,005 points, while Emmanuel Umujose secured third place to complete an all-Nigerian podium.
The country’s impressive showing also earned it the Best Country award, ahead of other competing nations, including Kenya and host country Liberia.
The achievement underscores Nigeria’s continued strength in competitive Scrabble and highlights the dedication, tactical ability and consistency of its players on the continental stage.
President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation, Bright Idahosa, praised the players for their outstanding performances and acknowledged the support of the National Sports Commission.
Nigeria’s latest triumph is expected to provide further encouragement for the development of Scrabble in the country, as the national team continues to build on its reputation as one of Africa’s leading forces in the game.
The championship’s outcome also reinforces Nigeria’s ambition to maintain its continental leadership and inspire a new generation of Scrabble players.
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