In a stunning display of linguistic prowess, Team Nigeria made a resounding statement on the first day of the World English-Language Scrabble Players Association Championship (WESPAC) 2025 in Accra, Ghana. The Nigerian contingent, comprising 20 players, showcased their exceptional skills, with six players storming into the coveted top 20 rankings.
Leading the charge is Bayelsa’s Timi Woko, who topped the leaderboard with a flawless 7-0 record, leaving the global pack in his wake. A trio of Delta State-born wordsmiths, George Ezinore (4th), Godwin Victor (8th), and Rex Ogbakpa (10th), followed closely, while Oluwatimilehin Doko of Ogun (11th) and Chinedu Thorpe of Anambra (16th) rounded off Nigeria’s impressive performance.
The Palms by Eagles Hotel in Accra was abuzz as over 250 of the world’s finest Scrabble players gathered for the “Battle of Brains and Vocabulary.” Nigeria’s dominance was evident, with their players outmaneuvering opponents from 28 nations. The country’s rich Scrabble legacy, decades-long dominance, and meticulous preparation were on full display as they showcased their intellectual stamina and linguistic firepower.
*Top 20 Breakdown:*
Rank Player Record Country
1st Timi Woko 7-0 Nigeria
4th George Ezinore 6-1 Nigeria
8th Godwin Victor 6-1 Nigeria
10th Rex Ogbakpa 5-2 Nigeria
11th Oluwatimilehin Doko 5-2 Nigeria
16th Chinedu Thorpe 5-2 Nigeria
As the championship enters Day 2, all eyes are on Team Nigeria. Can Woko maintain his flawless run? Can Ezinore or Victor climb into the top three? The pressure mounts, but Nigeria’s mental gladiators look ready for the challenge.
Nigeria’s WESPAC 2025 Squad:
– 15 national qualifiers
– 5 late entrants who fought through the Last Chance Qualifier
