Nigerian chess players Sandra Osarugue Omoruyi and 15-year-old Odey Goodness Ekunke have recorded notable milestones following their participation in the 46th FIDE World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Omoruyi represented Nigeria in the women’s section of the prestigious tournament and contributed to the team’s impressive 4–0 opening-round victory over Mali. She went on to score five points from nine games during the competition.

For Ekunke, the Olympiad marked another significant step in his developing chess career as he made his debut at the international competition at the age of 15.

The young Nigerian opened his campaign on a winning note as Nigeria’s Open team defeated New Caledonia 4–0 in the first round.

Ekunke arrived at the Olympiad after winning the World Rapid Amateur Chess Championship in Abuja in August, adding another major achievement to his growing list of accomplishments.

Omoruyi also came into the Olympiad on the back of a successful year, having emerged as the African continental winner of the 2026 Queen’s Online Chess Festival.

Their achievements highlight the growing presence of Nigerian chess players on the international stage, with Omoruyi bringing experience and Ekunke representing the emergence of a promising new generation.