The Nigerian, 22 delivered an outstanding performance, securing 7½ points from nine rounds to claim the title with style.

Following his silver medal win at the Zone 4.2 Championship, he impressed with his precision and maturity, dominating a tough field. His victory not only earned him the continental title but also put him in the running to qualify for the 2025 FIDE World Cup.

Olisa will now compete against the bronze medalist from the African Individual Chess Championship for a spot in the global tournament and has also earned a place in the prestigious FIDE Grand Swiss.

Olise had this to say:

“This means the world to me. Winning this title on home soil is something I’ll never forget. I am proud to represent Nigeria and Africa at the next level.”

Algeria’s Lina Nassr claimed the women’s title on tie-break after finishing joint second with 6½ points, alongside Nigeria’s Abdulrahman Akintoye. However, it was Olisa who emerged as the top player across all categories.

The championship, organized by the African Chess Confederation with support from the Nigerian government and sporting authorities, represents a new milestone for zonal chess on the continent.