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.
Oreofe, a student of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College in Ado Ekiti, clinched the continental title after defeating contestants from more than 20 African countries at the competition held in Harare. Her victory comes with a $5,000 educational scholarship.
In a statement, President Tinubu described the achievement as a reflection of the value of sustained investment in education, literacy, and youth development across Nigeria.
He commended Oreofe’s resilience and determination, noting that her journey to the top was marked by persistence despite earlier setbacks. The President also praised the role of her parents, teachers, and mentors in supporting her success.
Oreofe had previously finished second at the 2023 MTN Spelling Bee and the 2024 Ekiti State Spelling Bee. She placed fifth at the 2025 African Spelling Bee and second at the 2025 Nigeria Spelling Bee before ultimately securing first place in the 2026 edition.
“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,” the President said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the education sector by creating opportunities that enable Nigerian youths to compete and excel globally.
President Tinubu wished Oreofe continued success in her academic and personal pursuits, describing her victory as a source of pride for the nation.
