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Showing posts with the label NSF

A New Era for Nigerian Scrabble: Building on a Legacy of Excellence

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The newly elected Nigerian Scrabble Federation President's official statement as he assumes office - Bright Idahosa  Over the years, Scrabble in Nigeria has evolved from a simple pastime into a celebrated sport that commands respect both nationally and internationally. This remarkable transformation did not happen overnight, it is the product of years of vision, dedication, and relentless effort from passionate individuals who have worked tirelessly to elevate the game we all love. Bright Idahosa NSF President  He further went on to appreciate the entire board:  At this moment, it is only fitting to recognize and appreciate everyone who has contributed to this inspiring journey: administrators, players, coaches, sponsors, and devoted enthusiasts. Your collective passion has built the strong foundation that today makes Nigeria a true powerhouse in the global Scrabble community. A special tribute goes to Engr. Toke Aka, the immediate past President of the Nigeria Scrabble F...

How Scrabble Shapes Nigerian Society Positively

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Scrabble is more than just a board game in Nigeria.  It is a tool that inspires learning, builds community, and raises national pride. Over the years, Nigeria has become one of the strongest Scrabble-playing nations in the world, producing world champions and nurturing some of the finest strategic minds. 1. Promoting Education and Literacy Scrabble encourages strong vocabulary skills and critical thinking. Many students who play Scrabble develop better spelling, reading comprehension, and quick reasoning. In several Nigerian schools, Scrabble is now part of co-curricular activities, helping young learners improve their English while having fun.  I remember meeting with Olatunde Oduwole (National Scrabble Champion 2016) a Gold Medalist 2022 NSFestival singles. This is a man of jam-packed vocabs you can never comprehend. His mastery in word placement and board controls coupled with his word power equals to nothing but what I call word-power-house. I will likely talk about him la...

Bangkok International Championship 2025 - The Crown Jewel of Asian Scrabble

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The global Scrabble spotlight is currently shining brightly on Bangkok, Thailand, as the Bangkok International Crossword Game Championship 2025 (also known as the Thailand International/King’s Cup) officially kicks off. This prestigious tournament, running from October 11 - 13, 2025, is taking place at Paradise Park in Bangkok, and it is one of the largest Scrabble events in the world attracting elite players and millions of enthusiasts from across the globe. This is a Tournament with Royal Prestige.  The Bangkok International Championship is Thailand’s flagship Scrabble event, historically supported by the Thai monarchy. The winner of the top division traditionally receives a royal trophy, a symbol of honor and excellence in the Scrabble world. First launched decades ago as the Brand’s Crossword Game King’s Cup, the event has grown into an international mind-sport spectacle and a platform for language learning and youth development. This year’s edition features top international p...

Lagos Unified Scrabble Meet Set for November 1st

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Scrabble lovers are in for an exciting time as the Lagos Unified Scrabble Meet is set to hold on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Poolside Pavilion, Rowe Park Sport Centre, Alagomeji, Yaba. The event is rated by both NSF and PANASA wherein it promises to be a thrilling gathering of word warriors gearing players for the WESPAC in Ghane. What to Expect Star Prize: ₦150,000 Registration Fee: ₦10,000 Number of Games: 10 rounds Food, drinks, music, and even swimming will be available to make the day more fun-filled. Participation Only 50 players will be admitted into this exclusive meet-up, making it one of the most competitive Scrabble events in Lagos this year. For Registration & Payment Bank: Access Bank Account Number: 0067109082 Account Name: Olumide Oyejide Confirmation: Send payment receipt to 08145489813bon WhatsApp only. The Lagos Unified Scrabble Meet is about building connections, enjoying the Scrabble community, and gearing players for the WESPAC in Ghane. If you are ready...

Abdulmumin Jimoh wins the Lekki Scrabble Classics 2025

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Lekki Scrabble Classic 2025 Full Recap Jimoh Abdulmimim, Lekki Scrabble Classics Champ 2025 The Lekki Scrabble Classic (LSC) 2025 has officially concluded, delivering two days of elite Scrabble action in Lagos on September 27–28, 2025. With a combined prize pool of ₦4,750,000, this year’s edition cemented the LSC as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious and competitive tournaments. Last year (2024), the Lekki Scrabble Classic was won by Charles Tachie-Menson from Ghana.  Abdulmumin Jimoh wins the Lekki Scrabble Classics 2025 and took home ₦1,000,000 + the LSC trophy.  Premier Division Eligibility: Players rated 1300–2000 Prize Pool: ₦2,620,000 + ₦550,000 in Intermediate awards Top Prize: ₦1,000,000 Championship Division Eligibility: Nigeria Scrabble Federation-licensed players rated 0–1299 Prize Pool: ₦1,580,000 Top Prize: ₦400,000 There were also extra prizes given to prospective (u17) players, Veterans and female top players  The Premier division featured highest-rated pl...

How Playing Scrabble Improves Mental Health

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  Scrabble is more than a classic board game. It is a surprisingly powerful tool for boosting mental well-being. Whether you are playing casually with family or competitively at tournaments, scrabble provides a mental workout that benefits your brain and your mood. 1. Strengthens Cognitive Function Playing Scrabble involves recalling words, counting scores, and thinking strategically. This keeps your brain active, sharpens memory, and strengthens vocabulary. Research shows that such mentally stimulating games may delay cognitive decline as we age.  2. Reduces Stress and Anxiety Scrabble allows players to focus fully on the board and tiles, temporarily taking their minds off daily worries. This mindful engagement promotes calmness and reduces feelings of anxiety.  3. Encourages Social Interaction Sharing a Scrabble board brings people together. Whether it’s with friends, family, or fellow club members, these moments of connection boost mood and combat loneliness. 4. Builds...

Nigeria’s Top 10 WESPA Ratings September 2025

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Nigeria continues to be a powerhouse in the world of Scrabble, and the latest WESPA Nigeria ratings show just how dominant the country remains on the global stage. Updated on September 25, 2025, after the Fortune Town Invitational Tournament, these ratings highlight the very best wordsmiths representing the green and white. Here are Nigeria’s Top 10 Scrabble Players September 2025: Rank Player WESPA Rating 1 Wellington Jighere 2003 2 Eta Karo 1981 3 Dennis Ikekeregor 1980 4 Okiemute Tega 1980 5 Enoch Nwali 1978 6 Ezinore George 1968 7 Jimoh Abdulmumin 1961 8 Doko Oluwatimilehin 1961 9 Samson Okosagah 1958 10 Ayorinde Saidu 1945 Wellington Jighere stays at the top with a commanding 2003 rating.  These ratings reflect Nigeria’s remarkable consistency with several players rated above 1900, a mark that puts them among the world’s elite. You might be wondering why this matter? Nigeria’s dominance at the top level of Scrabble is not just about pride, it shapes the global game. With more ...

Quick Thinking - The Speed Workout of Scrabble

Scrabble is not just about knowing words  it is about finding them fast. You can ask Nigel Richards if you doubt this statement.  When the clock is ticking, you train your brain to think sharper, make decisions quicker, and spot plays under pressure. Decision-Making on the Fly Every turn is a mini race against time. You scan the board, check your rack, and choose the best option  all in seconds. This boosts your ability to make smart decisions in real life too. Pattern Recognition According to Nigel, "scrabble is about pattern". Your brain becomes a lightning-fast scanner, picking out playable words, bonuses, and openings in record time. The more you play, the quicker you see opportunities others miss. Staying Cool Under Pressure Blitz games and tournaments teach you to stay calm when the clock is running down. This mental skill helps in exams, meetings, and any situation where quick thinking matters. Mental Agility Your brain gets faster at switching strategies - pivotin...

YCT Grand Patron Scrabble Mega Jamz: The Ultimate Word Battle

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  THE STAGE IS SET! The countdown is over - it is time for the most anticipated Scrabble showdown of the year! On September 13th, 28 elite Scrabble players will storm the YABATECH Scrabble Club arena to compete in the YCT Grand Patron Scrabble Mega Jamz, an electrifying battle of wits, strategy, and vocabulary mastery. This event promises high-octane gameplay, nail-biting finishes, and a display of sheer mental agility as each player fights for supremacy, one tile at a time. Because this is mega jam that will prepare the club players for the  Lekki Scrabble Classic s lated for 27 - 28 of this September. 📅 Date: Saturday, September 13th 📍 Venue: YABATECH Scrabble Club ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM sharp Proudly Sponsored By: Mr. Femi Ayekun (Grand Patron) Whether you are a Scrabble enthusiast or a casual fan, this is your chance to witness intense competitive action, cheer for your favorites, and soak in the unforgettable atmosphere of the ultimate word battle. 📞 For Enquiries & Supp...

National Youth Games 2025: Young Stars Shine in Asaba

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The city of Asaba, D elta State is buzzing with energy as the 9th National Youth Games (NYG) unfolds from August 26 to September 6, 2025. This year’s edition hosted for the third consecutive time by Delta is setting new standards in youth sports, uniting over 6,000 athletes, coaches, and officials from across Nigeria. From athletics to swimming, gymnastics, football, and even Scrabble, the Games feature 37 sporting disciplines, making it one of the most diverse editions yet. The Stephen Keshi Stadium and other top facilities in Asaba are serving as arenas where future national champions are being discovered. Highlights Delta State , the defending champions, are aiming to keep their crown on home soil. Team Lagos swimmers made history with a record-breaking 19 gold medals in the pool. Edo State ’s gymnastics team dazzled with 6 golds and 3 silvers, announcing themselves as ones to watch. The National Youth Games also embrace tradition, with events like ayo, abula, Scrabble, and chess. ...

Malaysia Runs WYSC with AuPair DOS

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The 20th World Youth Scrabble Championship (WYSC) currently underway in Malaysia is not only a showcase of young wordsmith talent, but also a reminder of how trusted tournament technology continues to power the Scrabble world. Aupair sample At the heart of this global event lies AuPair DOS, the classic pairing and results software that has managed international Scrabble tournaments for decades. Despite its vintage, AuPair remains a reliable backbone for ensuring that matches are fairly paired, results are swiftly processed, and standings are accurately generated. Why AuPair DOS Still Matters Efficiency : The program runs seamlessly on modern systems through emulators like vDos, ensuring organizers avoid technical hitches during live tournaments. Accuracy : From Swiss draws to spread calculations, AuPair handles the mathematics of Scrabble competition with speed and precision. Tradition : Many top-rated Scrabble events including world championships still rely on AuPair because of its pr...

AUGUST CELEBRANTS UNITE IN SAPELE

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Sapele will be the hub of Scrabble excitement this Sunday, 31st August 2025, as the city hosts a special Scrabble Retreat dedicated to uniting August celebrants. This isn’t just a social gathering, it is a full Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) rated retreat with competitive play and exciting rewards. Event Details Date: Sunday, 31st August 2025 Time: From 9:30 a.m. Venue: Sapele Scrabble Club, Delta State. Format: 10 Games (NSF Rated) CSW24 Grand Prize Band: ₦100,000 And a trophy 🏆  Celebrate with fellow August celebrants in a unique, community-driven retreat.  Network and bond with Scrabble enthusiasts across Delta and Benin. With 10 challenging games, a ₦100,000 prize band, and NSF rating points at stake, the event is set to attract players eager to celebrate, compete, and connect. 📌 Mark your calendar and be pa rt of this memorable Scrabble celebration!

Team Nigeria Arrives Nairobi for the African Scrabble Championship 2025

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Nigerian Youth Scrabble Team Arrives Nairobi for the African Scrabble Championship The Nigerian Scrabble contingent, including both the senior and youth teams, has arrived in Nairobi, Kenya, ahead of the highly anticipated African Scrabble Championship (ASC). NSF President Engr Toke with the youth team The team, known for its dominance on the continental stage, is set to compete against the best players from across Africa in a battle of words, skill, and strategy. Nigeria will be represented by a formidable lineup of seasoned champions and promising young talents, all eager to maintain the country’s enviable record in the sport. Led by the national coaching crew and officials from the Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF), the delegation includes players in the youth category who will feature in the African Youth Scrabble Championship (AYSC) running alongside the main event. Over the years, Nigeria has built a reputation as the undisputed powerhouse of African Scrabble, consistently produc...

WESPA Calendar Features 5th Gov. Douye Diri National Scrabble Championship

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WESPA Calendar Features 5th Gov. Douye Diri National Scrabble Championship The World English-Language Scrabble Players Association (WESPA) has listed the 5th Edition of the Gov. Douye Diri National Scrabble Championship on its official events calendar. This recognition places the prestigious tournament firmly on the international stage, attracting attention from top players and enthusiasts worldwide. Scheduled at Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, the championship has become a flagship event in Nigeria’s Scrabble calendar, consistently drawing elite competitors from across the country. The tournament honors the support of Governor Douye Diri, whose commitment to the game has helped nurture talent and boost the sport’s profile both locally and globally. With its inclusion on the WESPA Calendar, the 2026 edition is expected to see increased participation, higher competitive standards, and wider media coverage, further cementing Nigeria’s status as a powerhouse in world Scrabble.  WESPA Calendar...

Female Nigerian Scrabble Players Win Gold in the 13th African Games (Accra 2023)

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The 13th All African Games 2023 was hosted in Accra Ghane from March 18th to 22nd.The competition was rescheduled to 2024 due to one or two. Albeit, in the competition, the Nigerian females soared in flying colors as they mopped 2 golds🥇🥇 for their country. Though, this time, the undefeated Nigerian male scrabble players did not win a medal which was unusual but they were honored by their ladies with golden hands. Below are Team Nigeria players  Males: 1. Wellington Jighere  2. Etim Nsikak 3. Okiemute Tega Females:  1.  Adekansi Adebisi 2. Mayuku Tuoyo 3. Ola Joy Seun congratulates Bisi Bisi|Joy|Tuoyo

The Green Locusts of Nigeria show Amazing Start in the World Scrabble Championship

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 The World English Language Scrabble Players Association (WESPA) kickstarted the World Scrabble Championship in Las Vega, Nevada this Saturday 22nd which will end Wednesday 26th comprise of 31 countries.  Team Nigeria has over 10 players in the WSC top 50 players after round 8    

Nigerian Scrabble Federation Professional Workshop For TDs, Adjudicators and Coaching

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Project Nigerian Scrabble Federation Training For TDs, Adjudicators & Coaching comes up this Friday 30th July 2021 at Abuja National Stadium. The use this medium to encourage the youths to participate in this workshop as it helps build professional tournament directors, Adjudicators, and prospective Coaches on scrabble matters.  Below is a guideline of the entire bulletin:  There shall also be a National Retreat after the workshop which will commence on the 31st. Prize money will be available for winners.