Scrabble enthusiasts across Nigeria are gearing up for an exciting showdown as the fifth edition of the Janet Adowei Memorial Scrabble Championship takes place in Lagos from November 16 to 18.
This annual tournament, now a prominent fixture in the Nigerian Scrabble calendar, brings together players for a competitive mix of skill, camaraderie, and rating points.
Founded by Ebikeme Adowei, the former president of the Lekki Scrabble Club, the JAMSC serves to honor his late mother, Janet Adowei, while also fostering the growth and development of the game in Nigeria.
Over the years, the championship has played a crucial role in discovering emerging talents and sharpening the minds of seasoned players, preparing them for future competitive challenges.
This year’s event holds extra significance, coming just weeks before the National Sports Festival in Ogun State, set for January 2024. With a top prize of N750,000 up for grabs, the stakes are high as players gather for two intense days of competition in Gbagada, Lagos.
The JAMSC has always been generous with spot prizes, rewarding participants for their efforts and adding an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.
Last year’s event saw notable figures like Chief Superintendent of Police Femi Okunowo, the Chairman of the Nigeria Police Scrabble, visiting and supporting the tournament, which attracted around 100 players.
Players wishing to compete are encouraged to complete their registration via the official tournament website – www.scrabblejamclassic.com.(http://www.scrabblejamclassic.com), before the deadline on November 13.
At the 2023 edition, one of the tournament’s standout moments came when Ryan Jacob stunned the crowd with a perfect 9-0 run on the second day, eventually finishing with 14 wins and only two losses.
Previous champions include Olumide Oyejide, who won the inaugural edition in 2020, and Olatunde Oduwole, the winner of the second edition. In 2022, current African Scrabble Championship No.2 George Ezinore claimed the top prize.
With the tournament’s growing prestige and excitement, the 2024 edition promises to be another thrilling chapter in Nigerian Scrabble history.
