LAGOS COMMISSIONER HAILS NIGERIA FIRST LADY’S LEGACY IN EDUCATION AS 21ST EDITION OF SPELLING BEE KICKS OFF
The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, has praised the enduring legacy of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, for her visionary contribution to educational development through the Spelling Bee competition, which she initiated over two decades ago under her New Era Foundation during her tenure as the First Lady of Lagos State.
Speaking at the commencement of the 21st edition of the competition (Junior Category), organised by the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA), in collaboration with the New Era Foundation, the Commissioner, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, noted that the initiative has consistently inspired academic excellence, confidence, and leadership qualities among pupils across Lagos public schools.
He described the Spelling Bee as one of the most impactful academic programmes in Nigeria, having produced outstanding young leaders, including several One-Day Governors who continue to excel in various spheres.
Alli-Balogun emphasised that the continuation of the programme demonstrates the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing intellectually vibrant learners and sustaining initiatives that enhance learning outcomes.
According to him, the 21st edition promises to be even more competitive and transformative as pupils from various schools and local government areas across the State participate in the prestigious contest.
He added that the consistency of the programme reflects the government’s deep commitment to the total development of pupils, expressing satisfaction with the progress made over the years.
Alli-Balogun also acknowledged successive First Ladies of the State who sustained the initiative after Senator Tinubu, including the current First Lady, Dr.(Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, whom he applauded for her continued support and encouragement.
In his goodwill message, the Permanent Board Member of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Hon. Babatunde Adewale commended the government and OEQA for sustaining a competition that continues to identify, groom, and celebrate young talents.
He described the Spelling Bee as more than a competition, calling it a leadership grooming platform that has produced several high-achieving individuals. He reaffirmed LASUBEB’s commitment to strengthening basic education in the State and creating opportunities that build confidence, literacy competence, and resilience among learners.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Organising Committee and Director, Private Education and Special Programmes (OEQA), Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, highlighted the significance of the competition, noting its role in boosting students’ confidence and academic performance both locally and internationally.
He explained that the pupils at the event had emerged as champions at the school and local government levels, making them worthy representatives of their communities and schools.
Dr. Ogunmuyiwa further stressed that language remains the foundation of all human interaction, learning, and expression. According to him, “Language is the basis of all that we do; when learners truly understand language, it reflects in their confidence, their communication, and their overall academic performance.”
He noted that competitions like the Spelling Bee strengthen literacy, improve diction, and help pupils develop a solid command of English, which ultimately enhances their performance across all subject areas.
He added that the Spelling Bee aligns perfectly with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, particularly the pillars on Education and Technology and Social Inclusion, by promoting equitable access to quality learning opportunities and building the intellectual capacity of pupils to compete globally.
Dr. Ogunmuyiwa reaffirmed OEQA’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate academic standards and nurture the next generation of articulate, confident, and innovative young leaders.
Before the competition began, the Quiz Master and General Manager of Lagos Television (LTV), Mrs. Sola Kosoko, outlined the rules and standards expected of participants and offered guidance to help them navigate the contest.
The competition progressed through several rounds, featuring impressive demonstrations of spelling accuracy and composure, with contestants eliminated successively until the winners emerged.
At the end of the contest, Master Yusuf Yusuf of Community Primary School, Oke-Odo, Agbado-Oke Odo LCDA, emerged as the overall winner of the 21st edition (Junior Category), while Master Raphael Ntoliba of Olomu Primary School, Ajah, Eti-Osa Local Government and Master Monday Joshua of Muslim Mission Primary School, Oworonshoki, Kosofe Local Government came second and third respectively.
In his remarks, Yusuf expressed appreciation to his father, mother and teachers for their support, attributing his success to personal dedication, consistent study, and determination to excel.
With the completion of the primary school category, the competition will continue with the grand finale for secondary school students, scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the same venue, where the next One-Day Governor of Lagos State will emerge.
