UNILAG Student, Oluwatimilehin Doko Makes History as Youngest Champion at African Scrabble Championship
UNILAG student Oluwatimilehin Doko, a 500-level Pharmacy major, made history as the youngest-ever champion at the 15th African Scrabble Championship in Kigali, Rwanda.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has once again positioned itself on the global stage as 500-level Pharmacy student, Oluwatimilehin Doko, emerged as the Champion of the 15th African Scrabble Championship held in Kigali, Rwanda. The event, which concluded on Saturday, October 26, 2024, celebrated Doko not only for his remarkable achievement but also for becoming the youngest-ever winner in the tournament's history.
The prestigious four-day competition saw top contenders from across Africa, with representatives from Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Gambia, Mauritius, Zambia, South Africa, and Cameroon engaging in a rigorous 32-round showdown. Doko’s victory marks Nigeria’s 14th win in the tournament’s history, underscoring the country’s continued dominance in African Scrabble.
Doko’s journey to the top was marked by impressive victories that highlighted his strategic skills and resilience. He began the tournament on a high note, defeating Uganda’s Godwin Murungi 487-423 in the opening round, closing Day 1 with seven wins out of eight games. His prowess continued as he clinched a significant 497-420 win over fellow Nigerian Mumeen Jimoh in Round 13, securing him a place at the first table.
The defining moment came in Round 31, where Doko defeated Jimoh again with a commanding 574-442 win, cementing an unassailable lead with a total of 24 victories. His performance reflects the values of resilience, strategy, and excellence that the University of Lagos champions.
Adding to the university’s achievement, UNILAG’s scrabble talent shone in the Under-25 category, where Human Kinetics and Health Education student, David Ojih, secured sixth place with a 20-12 record. Ojih, an African Youth Champion, showcased the depth of scrabble expertise fostered by the university.
This victory follows UNILAG alumnus Enoch Nwali’s 2021 championship win in Lusaka, Zambia, further affirming the university’s legacy of excellence and its commitment to nurturing exceptional talent.
