The Zonal Chess Championships remain one of the most prestigious and unifying chess events in the world. Organized under the auspices of the Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) and the continental confederations, the championships serve as the official zonal competition for countries within each and every zone.
The Zone 4.2 (West Africa) Chess Championships includes: Nigeria, Mali, Ghana, Togo, Liberia, Cape Verde, Niger, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Gambia, Burkina Faso, and Sierra Leone.
The 2026 edition of the Zone 4.2 (West Africa) Chess Championships, scheduled to take place in Lomé, Togo, from April 24 to May 2, continues a growing tradition of a united zone, competition, and regional integration. The tournament will feature both Open and Women sections, played in a Swiss format across nine (9) rounds.
National Federations are expected to send their best representatives, including top-rated players and national champions, making it a true battle for regional supremacy. The organizers have also proudly provided for a representative from each participating nation, in both the Open and Women’s sections.
More than just a tournament, the Zone 4.2 Individual Chess Championship used to play a crucial role in the global chess ecosystem, as a part of the official World Chess Championship cycle, offering players the opportunity to qualify for continental championships and beyond. While it does not currently provide chess titles or a qualification for the Chess World Cup, it remains a vital platform for improvement, international exposure, and career advancement for players across West Africa.
Although historical records are not always centrally consolidated, verified recent champions of the Zone 4.2 West Africa Chess Championship include the following:
Open Section (Champions):
2025 – Abdulrahman Abdulraheem Akintoye (Nigeria)
2024 – Abdulrahman Abdulraheem Akintoye (Nigeria)
2023 – Mariano Ortega Amarelle (Cape Verde)
2022 – Mariano Ortega Amarelle (Cape Verde)
2020 – Ajibola Olanrewaju (Nigeria)
Women’s Section (Champions):
2025 – Toritsemuwa Ofowino (Nigeria)
2024 – Toritsemuwa Ofowino (Nigeria)2023 – Maud Benson (Ghana)
2022 – Toritsemuwa Ofowino (Nigeria)
2020 – Nadezda Marochkina (Senegal)
These names highlight the growing dominance of Nigeria in both the Open and Women sections, while also reflecting the strong challenge by players from Cape Verde, Coté d’Ivoire and Ghana. The repeat successes of players like Toritsemuwa, Abdulrahman and Ortega, underline the increasing consistency and professionalism within the region.
Over the years, the Zone 4.2 Championship has evolved from a relatively small regional contest into a highly competitive event, featuring rising stars and seasoned professionals. Countries that previously had limited presence (Mali, Burkina Faso, etc) are now investing in chess development, creating a more balanced and unpredictable field.
Nigeria has been a dominant force, producing several champions and consistently fielding strong teams. However, competition from Cape Verde, Liberia, and Côte d’Ivoire have made the competition a bit more dynamic. Mali is another country that has recently been investing tremendous resources in the development of chess, especially with the emergence of their new president, Mr. Maiga Youssouf. This shift is important, as it signals the gradual strengthening of chess across West Africa.
Hosting the championship in Lomé, offers yet another refreshing and culturally rich experience for participants. Lomé is widely known for its Atlantic coastline, providing serene beach environments that are ideal for relaxation between rounds. The Grand Marché (Grand Market) stands as a vibrant commercial hub, filled with local crafts, textiles, and traditional goods, giving visitors a true taste of Togolese culture. The city also reflects a rich cultural diversity, with a blend of traditions, languages, and cuisines that represent the broader West African identity.
Additionally, Lomé’s strategic location makes it easily accessible to most participants from across the region, further enhancing its suitability as a host city. The Togo Chess Federation’s commitment to organizing this championship reflects its growing investment in chess and its desire to position itself as a key player in the development of intellectual sports in Africa.
The Zone 4.2 West Africa Chess Championship is more than a competition, it is a symbol of unity, growth, and ambition. With each edition, the tournament strengthens the foundation of chess within the West African region, inspires a new generation of players, and moves the region closer to global significance.
As the 2026 championship unfolds in Lomé, it will not only produce new (2026) champions, but also continue the story of a region steadily rising in the world of chess.
