On 30 May, FIDE President arrived on a working visit to Nigeria, where in Abuja city he participated in the ceremony of inauguration of newly elected President of Nigeria Jonathan Goodluck.

The same day Kirsan Ilyumzhinov met with Mr. Asishana Okauru, General Director of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF). During the meeting the leaders discussed the issues related to mutually beneficial cooperation between Nigeria and FIDE. It was noted in the interview with Kirsan Ilyumzhinov that the current year has been declared by him as the Year of Africa, a range of events aimed at promotion and popularization of chess in the African continent are planned for this year.

According to Ilyumzhinov, FIDE gives special attention to the inclusion of chess in school curriculum and the institutions of higher education.

"In my opinion, along with economic problems and poverty reduction in Africa, no less important attention should be paid to the programmes developing children's intelligence. The inclusion of chess into the school curriculum will certainly have a positive and lasting effect," said Kirsan Ilyumzhinov.

Following the meeting, the leaders signed a Memorandum of Understanding, under which FIDE and NGF will hold a preparatory event for the signing of the Agreement to promote chess in all 36 provinces of Nigeria. It is assumed that such Agreement will be signed in July this year. Tomorrow FIDE President will meet with the President of Nigeria Jonathan Goodluck.

Kirsan Ilyumzhinov playing chess vs Benedict Efemuai

Kirsan Ilyumzhinov vs Nigerian player