Governor Fintiri Pledges ₦5 Million Support to 12-Year-Old IDP Chess Champion, Mary Victor Zira

 

Governor Fintiri Pledges ₦5 Million Support to 12-Year-Old IDP Chess Champion, Mary Victor Zira

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has pledged a ₦5 million support to Mary Victor Zira, a 12-year-old internally displaced person (IDP) who has brought pride to the state and Nigeria through her exceptional achievements in chess.

Mary, originally from Michika Local Government Area, currently resides at the EYN IDP Camp in Adamawa State. Her remarkable journey began through the Chess in IDP Camps Initiative, where she developed a deep interest in the game and quickly showed exceptional skill and intelligence.

Under the mentorship of Vivian Ibrahim, the convener of the initiative, Mary’s talent blossomed  leading her to represent Nigeria on the international stage. She made headlines after winning the Chess and Community Tournament in Atlanta, Georgia, and later participated in the United Nations Games in New York, showcasing her brilliance and determination.

On Monday, Mary, alongside her mentor and members of the Chess in IDP Camps Initiative, visited Governor Fintiri at the Government House, Yola, to present her trophy. During the visit, the team also showcased one of the 750 chess boards donated to the initiative by the Gift of Chess Organization in New York to support chess development across Northern Nigeria.

Governor Fintiri, impressed by Mary’s achievements and resilience, commended her for being an inspiration to millions of children across the state. He described her success as a symbol of hope, courage, and the transformative power of education and opportunity.

“Mary has shown that with the right support, talent can emerge from anywhere, even in the most difficult circumstances. Her story reflects the spirit of Adamawa  resilient, intelligent, and full of potential,” Governor Fintiri said.

In recognition of her outstanding achievements, the Governor pledged ₦5 million to support Mary’s continued growth and education. He also assured the Chess in IDP Camps Initiative of the state government’s partnership in promoting similar youth empowerment and educational programs.

Mary, who is currently on a full scholarship at AUN Academy, expressed her gratitude to the Governor and the people of Adamawa for their encouragement. She promised to keep working hard and to use her success story to motivate other displaced children.

Vivian Ibrahim, in her remarks, thanked Governor Fintiri for his support and reaffirmed the initiative’s commitment to expanding chess education among children in IDP camps across Northern Nigeria. She noted that chess has proven to be an effective tool for developing critical thinking, focus, and confidence among young learners.

Governor Fintiri’s support for Mary highlights his administration’s ongoing commitment to education, youth empowerment, and talent development, ensuring that every child regardless of background  is given the opportunity to thrive.