Nigeria’s participation at the 2025 World Youth Scrabble Championship in Kuala Lumpur is under threat, with the squad’s trip yet to be secured due to lack of funds.
The Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) named a four-player team, led by Abdulqudus Olawale Aliu, but admitted the players may not make the journey without urgent financial support.
NSF President Olobatoke Aka warned that the players’ progress risked being stalled if help did not arrive quickly.
“We are calling on individuals, state governments and corporate organisations to support these young champions,” he said.
“They have the talent to make Nigeria proud, but they need the opportunity to be there.”
The championship runs from 30 August to 1 September.
Aliu, a multiple National Youth Games gold medallist, competed in last year’s edition in Sri Lanka, finishing inside the top 25 of 134 players despite missing a round.
He is joined in the squad by Prestige Archibong, fresh from winning the U-19 African Youth Championship; Sophia Ebube Ekeruche, unbeaten champion in the U-15 category; and Joy Eberechukwu Nwabuzor, a multi-title winner on the continental stage.
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Despite their promise, funding remains the obstacle. Aka admitted the federation could not guarantee the players’ travel.
“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.
“But without financial backing, they may not even get the chance to play.”
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At the last edition in Sri Lanka, Nigeria’s attendance was only made possible through support from the Kwara State Government.
Earlier this year, the country’s successful outing at the African Youth Scrabble Championships in Kenya relied on contributions from state associations, the NSF, and families of the players.
