Tinubu hails Nigerian teen for winning African Spelling Bee title
…president cites victory as boost for education, youth development President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday congratulated 14-year-old Adeolu Oluwadamilola Oreofe on her emergence as the 2026 African Spelling Bee Champion
…president cites victory as boost for education, youth development
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday congratulated 14-year-old Adeolu Oluwadamilola Oreofe on her emergence as the 2026 African Spelling Bee Champion in the Junior Category.
Oreofe, a student of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado Ekiti, clinched the continental title after outperforming contestants from over 20 African countries at the competition held in Harare, Zimbabwe. Her victory also earned her a $5,000 scholarship for education.
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In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the feat as a proud moment for Nigeria and a testament to the value of sustained investment in education, literacy, and youth development.
Tinubu commended the young champion’s determination and resilience, noting that her journey to the top was marked by steady progress despite earlier setbacks.
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According to the statement, Oreofe had finished second at the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee and the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee, before placing fifth at the 2025 African Spelling Bee and second at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee, culminating in her eventual triumph at the continental level this year.
The President also praised the role of her parents, teachers, and mentors in nurturing her talent and supporting her academic pursuits.
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“I am convinced that this feat not only brings honour to Nigeria on the continental stage but also serves as an inspiration to millions of young Nigerians to pursue excellence in academics and personal development,” Tinubu said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the education sector by creating opportunities that enable Nigerian youths to compete and excel globally.
The President wished the young champion continued success in her future endeavours.
