05/12/2025
DISTRICT II RETAKES LEAD IN LAGOS SPELLING BEE COMPETITION, SWEEPS TOP THREE POSITIONS
… As Nigeria’s First Lady Applauds Students’ Courage, Determination To Excel
Education District II has once again asserted its dominance in the education sector as students from the district emerged champions at the just-concluded 21st Annual Lagos State Spelling Bee Competition (Secondary School Category), producing the One-Day Governor and Deputy Governor for yet another year.
Etiyeyemonu Esther of Senior Model College, Igbokuta, Imota; Awoyemi Dorcas of Ikosi Senior Secondary School, Ikosi–Isheri; and Salami Jumai Olaide of Angus Memorial Senior High School, Somolu, all representing Education District II, emerged overall winner, first runner-up, and second runner-up, respectively, after a highly competitive final round that showcased brilliance, confidence, and exceptional spelling prowess.
In her goodwill message, the First Lady of Nigeria and initiator of the One-Day Governor concept, Her Excellency, Distinguished Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, congratulated the students for their remarkable performance.
Represented by the Executive Secretary, Board of Trustees, New Era Foundation, Barr. (Mrs.) Grace Giwa, the First Lady, praised the students’ courage, passion, and discipline. She expressed delight at the consistent positive reports and the enviable achievements of past winners of the competition, noting that the Spelling Bee continues to build exceptional leaders for the nation.
“These positive feedback reaffirm my belief that investing in education is investing in the collective future of our young learners,” she said. “Education remains the most important tool for shaping a brighter future. It nurtures discipline, confidence, and a deep love for knowledge, qualities that guide learners throughout life.”
She also appreciated the parents and teachers for their guidance and applauded the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) for sustaining high standards in organising the competition.
Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Ali-Balogun expressed pride in the students’ outstanding performance. “I say it confidently anywhere. Our students are the best. The results speak for themselves,” he affirmed.
Referencing the recent educational trip to Singapore, where eight Lagos public school students represented Nigeria due to their excellent achievements, the Commissioner emphasised that public school students in Lagos continue to set enviable standards.
He encouraged the winners to strive for greater heights, urging them not to rest on their past achievements but to sustain and surpass their records of excellence.
The Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, represented by the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District I, Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola described the competition as a celebration of intellectual curiosity, resilience, and mastery of the English language.
He commended the students for their courage and determination: “Whether or not you go home with a trophy, you are symbols of excellence, courage, and commitment.”
Agoro encouraged them to cherish the confidence and experience gained from the competition, emphasising that the skills acquired would serve them positively throughout life. He also acknowledged teachers and parents for their invaluable support and mentorship.
The Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District III, Teacher Olusegun Olawale Osinaike, in his goodwill message, urged all participating students to imbibe the true spirit of sportsmanship as they journey through academic competitions and life’s many challenges.
According to him, the ability to celebrate others, especially in moments of personal disappointment, is a mark of emotional maturity and leadership. “Every competition teaches us something valuable, and one of the greatest lessons is learning to rejoice with those who excel today,” he said.
Teacher Osinaike encouraged the students not to be discouraged if they did not clinch the top positions, reminding them that success is a continuous journey with many opportunities ahead.
Welcoming guests to the event, the Director, Private Education and Special Programmes, OEQA, and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa said the competition represents much more than spelling words, as it has become a platform for nurturing resilience, precision, and confidence under pressure.
“You are the intellectual elite of your generation. Your mastery, focus, and preparation are remarkable, and I pray you excel,” he encouraged the participants.
He appreciated the sponsors, organising committee, and OEQA team for their dedication to maintaining the high standards associated with the Lagos State Spelling Bee competition.
Speaking shortly after being declared the overall winner, Etiyeyemonu Esther described her victory as a dream come true and a defining moment in her academic journey.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, her teachers, and her parents for their unwavering support, noting that the competition pushed her to discover confidence, discipline, and abilities she never knew she possessed.
“Winning this competition means so much to me. It shows that hard work truly pays off, and I am grateful to everyone who believed in me and encouraged me throughout this journey,” she said.
She pledged to use her position as a platform to inspire other students across Lagos State, especially young girls, to embrace excellence and believe in their potential. “I hope my success encourages other students to aim high and never give up on their dreams. If I can do it, they can, too. This experience has changed my life, and I will carry the lessons with me into the future,” she added.
