The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has adopted eight-year-old chess player Emmanuela Iyobosa Omoragbon as a child of the palace, pledging support for her education, welfare and continued development in chess.

The monarch announced the decision during the opening of the Royal Rapid Chess Classic 2026 at his palace in Benin City, Edo State. He also made the ceremonial first move alongside the young player as part of activities marking the 10th anniversary of his coronation.

Oba Ewuare II directed palace chiefs to obtain Emmanuela’s details from her mother, Mrs Doris Omoragbon, a national chess champion and senior player with the Edo State Sports Commission, to facilitate the promised assistance and monitor the child’s progress.

The monarch emphasised the importance of chess in developing critical thinking, strategic planning and decision-making skills. He also promised Emmanuela a special gift and announced additional royal prizes for winners at the tournament’s grand finale scheduled for November 21.

In a gesture of support for chess development, the monarch awarded N2 million to chess players and students from Edo College who visited the palace. Emmanuela’s mother also received N250,000.

The competition subsequently continued at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub on Airport Road in Benin City, attracting 126 participants out of 130 registered players from different states across Nigeria.

The tournament features open, under-20, under-14 and under-10 categories, with the winner of the open category set to receive N350,000.

Tournament coordinator Augustine Apemiye disclosed that approval was being sought to establish the Oba Ewuare II Chess Club, which would provide chess training for children at the palace.

The competition will conclude on November 21, when winners across the various categories are expected to receive their prizes. The monarch’s pledge to support Emmanuela’s education and chess development also highlights the potential role of traditional institutions in encouraging young talent and expanding access to educational and sporting opportunities.

Oba Ewuare II adopts eight-year-old chess player Emmanuela Omoragbon, pledging educational and welfare support at the Royal Rapid Chess Classic 2026 in Benin City.