Follow Us on Google
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated 14-year-old Adeolu Oluwadamilola Oreofe, a student of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College in Ado Ekiti, for clinching the Junior Category title at the 2026 African Spelling Bee Championship in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Oreofe outshone competitors from over 20 African countries to win the continental crown, which includes a $5,000 educational scholarship. Her victory marks a stunning turnaround after years of near-misses: she placed second in the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee and the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee, fifth at the 2025 African Spelling Bee, and second at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee.
In a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised the young champion’s resilience and the role of her support network.
Other News
The President said: “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 linked Oreofe’s success to broader national priorities, stating it “reflects the importance of sustained investment in education, literacy, and youth development.” He applauded her dedication, as well as the “unwavering support of parents, teachers, and mentors who contributed to this remarkable success.”
“As a government, we will continue to strengthen the education sector by creating opportunities that enable Nigerian youths to compete and excel globally. I wish Miss Oreofe continued success in her future endeavours,” the President added.
