More ‘Dynamites’ Expected After WESPAC 2025 Success For Nigeria Scrabble – Khaleel Adedeji

 

 

The World English-Language Scrabble Players Association Championship (WESPAC) 2025 ended in Accra Ghana recently with some pomp and pageantry as Africa witnessed it’s second hosting of the global championship.

 

Khaleel Adedeji, the newly elected Technical Director of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation widely referred to as “Dynamite” coordinated the championships with other team members as 28 countries participated in the Main and side-events of the biennial 7-day competition in Accra, Ghana.

 

Top international scrabble journalist Tayo Ogunseye in this exclusive conversation engaged  the vibrant Adedeji who has been dynamic in overseeing the demanding technical duties of the game,

 

 

Question: Congratulations on the successful arbitration at the recently -concluded WESPAC 2025 in Accra, hosted by Ghana.

 

 

Adedeji: Thank you very much. I appreciate the kind words.

 

Question: How was the experience for you?

 

Adedeji: The experience was truly remarkable. Being part of the arbitration team at the world stage was both humbling and inspiring. The level of organization, the intensity of competition, and the collective passion for Scrabble made it a memorable assignment.

 

 

Question: What makes it different from the other assignment you have handled?

Adedeji: WESPAC stands out because of its sheer diversity—players from different ethnic, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds all competing at the highest level. The standard of play is extremely high, and every decision at the technical desk matters. The atmosphere is unique; you can feel that you’re part of a global community.

 

 

Question: Since your first international assignment at the West Africa Scrabble Championship (WASC), what has changed?

 

Adedeji: A lot has changed. Growth, for me, has been intentional. Since the WASC in Ghana, I’ve improved in every aspect of technical officiating—coordination, communication, conflict resolution, application of rules, and overall tournament management. Each event has shaped me, sharpened my abilities, and strengthened my confidence.

 

Question: What has been the driving force for you?

Adedeji:My biggest motivation is delivering quality service and constantly improving. I always aim to be better than I was yesterday. Knowing that one decision can influence a player’s experience pushes me to stay prepared, disciplined, and committed.

 

Question: Did your inauguration into the NSF board bring additional pressure going into WESPAC?

 

Adedeji: Not at all. The preparation for WESPAC started months before the inauguration, so I was mentally ready and physically prepared. Of course, improving the technical face of Scrabble in Nigeria is a huge responsibility, but with a clear plan and a solid support system, the pressure becomes manageable. I’m grateful the team delivered excellently in Ghana.

 

 

Question: Now back to Nigeria, what difference will your presence bring to the federation?

 

Adedeji: My goal is to build a system where we have more “Dynamites” across the country. It shouldn’t be one or two people who are always relied upon. I want to help create a structure that produces skilled and certified officials capable of running credible, transparent tournaments. Strong technical officials are the foundation of strong champions.

 

 

Question: Being a position that attracts much interest and expectations from players, how do you plan to meet their demands?

 

Adedeji: Communication is key. One major challenge we have is misinformation or lack of clarity. I plan to keep communication very open—regularly educating players on the rules, explaining technical decisions, and ensuring fairness at all times. When players are well-informed, the game flows better and sportsmanship improves.

 

 

 

Question: What are your plans for developing the technical capacity of individuals interested in interpreting the rules?

 

Adedeji: We will roll out structured technical trainings and seminars for both veteran officials and newcomers. With the wealth of experience from the immediate past President, Chief Toke, and other seasoned officials, we have a knowledge base we must tap into. The goal is to create a pathway where anyone who is passionate about technical officiating can learn, grow, get certified, and contribute meaningfully.

 

 

Question: Despite the demands of your new role, how do you relax?

 

Adedeji: Honestly, I relax by playing Scrabble. The game teaches me a lot—patience, adaptability, and acceptance. Just like the bag promises nothing, life promises nothing. You simply work with the tiles (opportunities) in front of you and create something beautiful.

 

Thank you.