Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has awarded scholarship to 9-year-old Deborah Quickpen, following her heroic performance at the recent Africa Youth Chess Championship in Accra, Ghana.
Miss Quickpen emerged champion in the Under-10 category after winning 9 out of 10 games.
Governor Diri, who received the chess prodigy in Yenagoa, rewarded her with scholarship to university level whether in Nigeria or overseas and N4m cash gift. She was also appointed Bayelsa State youth ambassador.
The governor commended the young chess champion, and urged parents to emulate Mr and Mrs Quickpen by training their children in the way they should go, so that they would become assets to the society.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Bayelsa State, I welcome you home and say a very big congratulations. You are a worthy daughter of this state. Having started on this beautiful note, your government will support you.
“For making personal sacrifices alongside your parents and coaches, I also announce a cash gift of four million naira,” he said.
Miss Quickpen had also represented Bayelsa at the just concluded 6th National Youth Games at Ilorin, Kwara State, where she won three gold medals.
She is the youngest Nigerian and African to win the prestigious chess championship.
