Press Brief: SemiFinals of Spellingbee in Nigeria (SpIN)

On Saturday, September 14, 2024 the SemiFinals of Spellingbee in Nigeria (SpIN) unfolded with excitement and determination as over 100 talented young spellers competed for the prestigious title of National Finalists. After two challenging rounds of spelling, 62 students from 14 schools across Lagos, Abuja, Oyo, and Taraba States emerged victorious. These finalists will represent their schools and states at the National Finals in February 2025.

The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Advisor to the Lagos State Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy; Mrs. Margaret Olele, CEO of the American Business Council – Nigeria; Amanda R. Brown from the US Consulate General- Lagos; Mr. Karan Checker, Managing Director of Checkers Africa Ltd; Mr. Ramanathan Solayappan, Marketing Head at Indomie Nigeria; and Mr. Juwon Amodu, District 9112 Rotaract Committee Chair.

Spellingbee in Nigeria has made a remarkable impression in its inaugural year, captivating over 400 attendees with a display of linguistic excellence and intellectual prowess. This momentous occasion not only celebrated the brilliance of Nigeria’s youth but also marked a historic step for the country as it gears up to join Ghana as the only African nations participating in the renowned Scripps National Spelling Bee.

The journey for these young spellers doesn’t end here. In February 2025, the National Finals will determine Nigeria’s representative for the centennial edition of the Scripps National Spelling Bee in the USA. This milestone underscores the program’s broader mission: fostering academic excellence, linguistic mastery, and leadership in students aged 8–13.

The debut of Spellingbee in Nigeria has been made possible through the unwavering support of Indomie Noodles as the title sponsor, Checkers Custard as co-sponsor, and partnerships with Lucid Education Initiative, the US Consulate General Lagos, the American Business Council of Nigeria, and the Rotary Club of VI East. Their combined efforts have illuminated a path for Nigeria’s brightest young minds to compete on a global stage, emphasizing the power of words, education, and collaboration.

As Nigeria prepares to take its place in the centennial Scripps National Spelling Bee , USA in May 2025, the world eagerly watches this new chapter in the nation’s academic journey. Together with Ghana, these young African spellers are a beacon of hope, determination, and inspiration.

Questions

  What inspired the launch of Spellingbee in Nigeria, and how has the journey been so far in its debut year?

  What criteria were used to select the 62 National Finalists, and what makes their achievements significant?

  How does Nigeria’s participation in the Scripps National Spelling Bee align with broader goals for educational excellence in the country?

  What specific challenges did the organizers face in bringing Spellingbee to Nigeria, and how were they overcome?

  Can you share insights into the support provided by sponsors like Indomie Noodles, Checkers Custard, and other partners in making this initiative a success?

  How will participation in the centennial Scripps National Spelling Bee in May 2025 benefit the Nigerian representative, both academically and personally?

  What are the plans to expand Spellingbee in Nigeria in the coming years, and how do you aim to engage more schools and communities across the country?