President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated 14-year-old Adeolu Oluwadamilola Oreofe for emerging winner of the juvenile category at the 2026 African Spelling Bee.
Oreofe, a student of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, clinched the continental title in Harare after outperforming contestants from over 20 African countries.
According to a statement issued Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, the victory earned the young champion a $5,000 educational scholarship.
President Tinubu described the achievement as a strong testament to the value of investment in education, literacy, and youth development.
“I firmly believe that this accomplishment not only brings honour to Nigeria on the continental stage but also inspires millions of young Nigerians to strive for academic excellence and personal growth,” the President said.
He added that his administration would continue to strengthen the education sector by creating opportunities for Nigerian youths to thrive and compete globally.
Tinubu also commended Oreofe’s parents, teachers, and mentors for their guidance and support, noting that her latest success builds on a consistent record of excellence.
Prior to her continental triumph, Oreofe placed fifth at the 2025 African Spelling Bee, second at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee, and was runner-up at both the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee and the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee.
The President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting young talents, while the Ekiti State Government has reportedly awarded Oreofe financial incentives and pledged to sponsor her, alongside her mother and coach, to represent Africa at the upcoming World Spelling Bee in China.