The competition brought together top young spellers from over 30 African countries, featuring high-pressure speed rounds and elimination stages. Nigeria was represented by five exceptional students selected through a rigorous national process organised by the Nigeria Spelling Bee.
At the heart of Nigeria’s success was Idoghor Oghenetano of Mountain Top Schools, Lagos, notably the youngest speller in the competition at just 10 years old, whose outstanding contribution proved decisive. In the intense speed round, Oghenetano correctly spelled 17 words out of 20 within one minute, demonstrating remarkable accuracy, confidence, and composure far beyond his age. This exceptional performance significantly boosted Nigeria’s total score, helping the team secure the position of 1st runner-up in Africa with 15.00 points.
In the final rankings, Team South Africa emerged in 1st place with 15.60 points, while Team Zimbabwe finished in 3rd place, making these three countries Africa’s representatives at the global stage.
Other members of Team Nigeria also delivered commendable performances that strengthened the country’s overall standing:
Oluwadamilola Adeolu of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado-Ekiti, emerged as the Junior Category Champion, displaying exceptional brilliance throughout the competition.
