Mary Victor Zira, a 12-year-old chess prodigy from an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Nigeria, has made history by winning a silver medal at the prestigious Chess and Community Tournament in the United States.
Competing alongside her teammate, Ivie Clement Urieto, Mary clinched second place and a $100 cash prize, marking a major milestone in her rapidly rising chess career.
She was one of five children selected from the Chess in IDP Camps initiative and Chess in Slums programme to travel to the U.S. for the event. With this victory, Mary is now set to compete in another major tournament in New York City.
Mary’s journey from an IDP camp to international recognition is nothing short of inspiring. She was discovered and trained by Vivian Ibrahim, a passionate chess coach and former beauty queen, who helped nurture her extraordinary talent through the Chess in IDP Camps initiative.
Her abilities first gained widespread attention after she delivered an outstanding performance at a chess championship in Malkohi IDP Camp, Yola, where she was spotted by global chess champion Tunde Onakoya. His endorsement brought sponsorship and global support, paving the way for her education and further development.
Thanks to this support, Mary secured a scholarship to the prestigious American University of Nigeria Academy, transitioning from life in an IDP camp to an institution renowned for its academic excellence.
Mary’s mentor, Vivian Ibrahim, expressed overwhelming joy at her success.
“My heart is overjoyed. I don’t even know what to say. Who would have thought that a child born in an IDP camp would gain global recognition?” she said.
She emphasized that Mary’s success is just the beginning and hopes that with more funding and support, many more children from disadvantaged backgrounds can achieve similar greatness.
Mary’s silver medal win highlights the transformative power of education, mentorship, and opportunity. As she prepares for her next tournament in New York, the world eagerly watches to see what she will achieve next.
