Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has pledged a financial support of five million naira to 12-year-old Mary Victor Zira, an internally displaced person (IDP) and chess prodigy from Michika Local Government Area.
Mary, who resides at the EYN IDP Camp in Yola, rose to fame through the “Chess in IDP Camps Initiative” where she developed a strong passion for the game. Her dedication and talent propelled her to international recognition after winning the Chess and Community Tournament in Atlanta, Georgia, and later participating in the United Nations Games in New York.
During a courtesy visit to the Government House, Yola, Mary presented her trophy to Governor Fintiri. She was accompanied by the convener of the Chess in IDP Camps Initiative, Vivian Ibrahim, and other team members. The group also showcased one of the 750 chess boards recently donated by The Gift of Chess organization in New York to promote chess development in Northern Nigeria.
Governor Fintiri, impressed by Mary’s achievements, commended her resilience and exceptional talent despite her circumstances, describing her as a symbol of hope and inspiration to young people across the state.
Mary, who is currently on a full scholarship at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) Academy, expressed gratitude to the governor and her trainers for their support, promising to continue making Adamawa proud.
With this pledge, Governor Fintiri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting educational and extracurricular excellence among children in displaced and underserved communities.