The Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) has unveiled a four-player squad for the 2025 World Youth Scrabble Championship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, but funding challenges may stop the team from making the journey.
Leading the squad is Abdulqudus Olawale Aliu, a multiple gold medalist at the National Youth Games and one of Nigeria’s most consistent youth players. Aliu, who also represented Nigeria at last year’s edition in Sri Lanka, finished among the top 25 players out of 134 participants despite missing one of the games.
Joining him is Prestige Archibong, fresh from winning the U-19 category at the African Youth Scrabble Championship in Kenya. Also in the squad is Sophia Ebube Ekeruche, who stunned the field to win the U-15 title in Kenya, going unbeaten throughout the tournament. The team is completed by Joy Eberechukwu Nwabuzor, a multi-title winner and key figure in Nigeria’s strong showing at the African Youth Scrabble Championships.
NSF President, Engineer Olobatoke Aka, said the squad was carefully chosen to reflect experience, form and readiness for global competition.
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“These players have shown consistency, talent and the ability to compete against the best in the world. They are prepared to conquer in Malaysia,” he said.
However, there are fears Nigeria may miss out on the championship due to lack of funds. The trip, which is scheduled for August 30 to September 1, is yet to be fully secured financially.
The NSF has appealed to government, private sponsors and well-meaning Nigerians to come to the rescue. “We are calling on individuals, state governments and corporate organisations to support these young champions. They have the talent to make Nigeria proud, but they need the opportunity to be there,” Aka added.
At the last edition in Sri Lanka, Nigeria was represented by Aliu and Sufyan Boluwatife Olojoku, who were sponsored by the Kwara State Government. Nigeria’s successful participation in Kenya earlier this year was made possible through a mix of NSF support, contributions from state associations, and families of the players.
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