The winner of the Lagos State Spelling Bee competition emerged yesterday at the grand finale which took place at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja. The 16 year old student of Angus Memorial Senior High, Jemimah Marcus won after a tense final competition between six other students.
Miss Jemimah was presented with a cash gift of N250, 000 while the first runner up, Master Sotin Ajose of Topo Senior Grammar School, Badagry got the sum of N150, 000 and the second runner up, Miss Rhema Edeh from Denton Junior Grammar School, Ebutta Metta was also presented with a cash gift of N100, 000.
The Special Guest of Honour, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu who was represented by Mrs. Funso Raji disclosed that the competition which has become a household name has put Lagos State in the fore front of quality education delivery. The First Lady who commended the winners also encouraged the participants not to rest on their oars.
The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Folasade Adefisayo who was visibly pleased with the participants and winners did not only commend the performance but also disclosed that the level of performance from the students only testify to the fact that the Lagos State Government is committed to delivery of quality education. This, according to her has improved teaching and learning in the state public schools.
The Director General, Office of Education Quality Assurance, Mrs. Abiola Seriki-Ayeni expressed extreme appreciation for Mr. Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for keeping faith with the competition. She further stated that the Office of Education Quality Assurance will continue to drive measures to improve qualitative standards and academic excellence in both private and public schools across the state in line with global best practices.
Mrs. Seriki-Ayeni commended the parents and teachers for given the students the opportunity to achieving all round quality education. She implored the participants to continue to imbibe good morals that will help them achieve their goals.
Olaniran Emmanuel
Public Affairs
OEQA