A Historic Win for Nigeria
In a moment of pride and celebration, 11-year-old Amazing-Grace Ahuoyiza Ebiebi Salami has made history as Nigeria’s first-ever Spellingbee In Nigeria (SpIN) National Champion. Hailing from Greenpath Preparatory School in Abuja, this young prodigy will now represent Nigeria at the 100th edition of the Scripps National Spelling Bee in the United States—a milestone event marking a century of linguistic excellence. Her journey is not just a personal triumph but a testament to the potential of Nigerian youth to excel on the global stage.
The Grand Finale: A Night of Brilliance
The grand finale of the competition was nothing short of spectacular. Held at the U.S. Consul General’s residence in Lagos, the event brought together 64 finalists from Abuja, Lagos, Osun, and Taraba States. These young spellers, aged between 9 and 14, showcased their linguistic mastery and academic brilliance, captivating an audience that included diplomatic corps members, parents, and educational leaders. The atmosphere was electric as the finalists battled through rounds of increasingly challenging words, each hoping to claim the coveted title.
After a series of intense rounds, Amazing-Grace emerged victorious by correctly spelling the winning word, “Melange.” Her triumph not only earned her the national title but also an all-expense-paid trip to the prestigious Scripps National Spelling Bee in the U.S. The word “Melange,” meaning a mixture or medley, perfectly encapsulates the diversity and talent displayed at the competition.
A Celebration of Language and Learning
Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg highlighted the significance of the event, noting that 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. “We are thrilled to welcome Nigeria to the competition for the first time,” she said. “This year, Amazing-Grace will join students from all 50 U.S. states and other countries like Ghana, Jamaica, and Japan, showcasing the global love for language and learning.”
Since its inception in 1925, the Scripps Spelling Bee has been a platform for promoting literacy, academic excellence, and a passion for the English language among young learners. Over the years, it has grown into a global phenomenon, inspiring millions of students to expand their vocabularies and hone their spelling skills. Nigeria’s participation this year adds a new chapter to this rich history, highlighting the country’s commitment to educational excellence.
Building Confidence and Inspiring Excellence
Eugenia Tachie-Menson, Convener of Spellingbee In Nigeria, emphasized the transformative impact of the competition. “SpIN is more than just a spelling contest,” she said. “It’s a platform that builds confidence, sharpens public speaking skills, and fosters critical thinking in young learners. Through this initiative, we’ve not only discovered champions but also inspired a generation to aim for global excellence.”
The competition, which began in September 2024, saw hundreds of participants from across Nigeria. Over several months, students underwent rigorous training and preliminary rounds, culminating in the grand finale. Eugenia expressed gratitude to partners, parents, and schools for their unwavering support in making this dream a reality. “This achievement is a collective effort,” she added. “It shows what we can accomplish when we invest in our children’s education.”
What’s Next for Amazing-Grace?
As Amazing-Grace prepares to represent Nigeria on the global stage, her journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young students across the country. The Scripps National Spelling Bee, scheduled for May 2025 in Washington, D.C., will bring together the brightest young minds from around the world. Competing against students from diverse backgrounds, Amazing-Grace will have the opportunity to showcase her talent and determination.
Her participation in the 100th Scripps National Spelling Bee is not just a personal achievement but a historic moment for Nigeria. It underscores the nation’s potential to excel in global academic competitions and highlights the importance of nurturing young talent. For Amazing-Grace, this is just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable journey.
The Impact of Spelling Bees on Education
Spelling bees are more than just competitions; they are powerful tools for educational development. They encourage students to expand their vocabularies, improve their spelling, and develop a love for language. Beyond academics, spelling bees teach valuable life skills such as resilience, discipline, and the ability to perform under pressure.
For Nigeria, the introduction of the Spellingbee In Nigeria (SpIN) initiative marks a significant step forward in promoting literacy and academic excellence. By providing a platform for students to showcase their talents, SpIN is helping to bridge the gap between local and global educational standards. It also serves as a reminder of the untapped potential within Nigeria’s youth.
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Why This Matters
Amazing-Grace’s story is a testament to the power of education, determination, and the importance of nurturing young talent. It reminds us that with the right opportunities and support, Nigerian students can compete and shine on the world stage. Her achievement is a source of pride for her family, school, and the entire nation.
As Nigeria continues to make strides in education, initiatives like SpIN play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators. Amazing-Grace’s journey is a shining example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity.
