Tinubu Hails 14-Year-Old Oreofe as African Spelling Bee Champion

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated 14-year-old Adeolu Oluwadamilola Oreofe for emerging as the 2026 African Spelling Bee Champion in the junior category, describing her victory as a proud moment for Nigeria.

Oreofe clinched the continental title at the competition held in Harare, Zimbabwe, defeating participants from over 20 African countries and earning a $5,000 educational scholarship.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said the achievement underscores the importance of sustained investment in education, literacy, and youth development.

Tinubu commended the student of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado Ekiti, for her resilience and dedication, noting that her journey to victory was marked by perseverance despite earlier setbacks.

According to the statement, Oreofe placed second at the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee and the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee. She later finished fifth at the 2025 African Spelling Bee and second at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee before securing the top prize in 2026.

The President also praised the role of her parents, teachers, and mentors in supporting her academic growth and success.

“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 said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the education sector by creating opportunities that enable Nigerian youths to compete globally.

The President wished Oreofe continued success in her future endeavours, describing her accomplishment as a symbol of what Nigerian youths can achieve with determination and the right support system.