An 11-year-old student, Amazing-Grace Ahuoyiza Ebiebi Salami, has made history as the National Champion of the inaugural Spelling Bee in Nigeria (SpIN), organized in collaboration with the U.S. Consulate.
Salami, a student of Greenpath Preparatory School, Abuja, triumphed in the keenly contested competition, which saw 64 finalists from Abuja, Lagos, Osun, and Taraba States battle for the top spot. The grand finale took place at the residence of the U.S. Consul General in Lagos.
After hours of rigorous competition, Amazing-Grace clinched the championship title by correctly spelling the final word, “Melange.”
Speaking at the event, Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg highlighted the significance of the competition, marking the first time Nigeria will participate in the globally renowned Scripps Spelling Bee.
“On behalf of the United States Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, it’s an honor to host the inaugural Spellingbee In Nigeria finals as we mark the 100th anniversary of the United States’ first national spelling bee.
“Since 1925, the Scripps Spelling Bee has showcased American academic excellence, while promoting literacy and a love of the English language among youth. We are very excited this year will also mark Nigeria’s first entrance into the competition, alongside students from all 50 United States and international students from Ghana, Jamaica, Japan, and beyond.” Gorg stated.
Eugenia Tachie-Menson, the convener of Spelling Bee in Nigeria, praised the competition’s impact on young learners.
“This is more than just a spelling competition, it’s a platform that builds confidence, public speaking skills and critical thinking in our young learners. Today, we have not only unearthed champions but also inspired a generation of Nigerian students to aim for global excellence. We are grateful to our partners, parents as well as schools for making this dream a reality,” she said.