By Peter Dansu Badagry Local Government came alive earlier yesterday as pupils and students battled word-for-word at the preliminary stage...
By Peter Dansu
Badagry Local Government came alive earlier yesterday as pupils and students battled word-for-word at the preliminary stage of the 21st Lagos State Spelling Bee Competition, a flagship initiative of the Office of the First Lady of Lagos State.
The event, hosted by the council’s First Lady, Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Oluwatoyin Hunpe, didn’t just test spelling ability but celebrated courage, brilliance, and character, setting the pace for the Lagos grand finale where champions from across the state will converge.
Executive Chairman of Badagry LG, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, described the contest as “a grooming ground for future leaders.” He emphasized that beyond spelling, the competition instills discipline, confidence, and resilience in young minds. “Education is the bedrock of success,” he said, urging participants to see the contest as a stepping stone to greater achievements.
Hunpe also paid glowing tribute to Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady, who pioneered the Spelling Bee over two decades ago, while commending successive First Ladies, including Dr. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for sustaining the legacy.
Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Hunpe, in her remarks, applauded the courage of every child who stepped forward to compete. “This is not just about spelling words right. It’s about building confidence and character. I am so proud of you all,” she said.
Council Manager, Mrs. Mary Abosede Olusanya, encouraged the participants, saying their performance proves that “the future of Badagry is bright.”
In recognition of their efforts, the Executive Chairman and Hon. Bonu presented cash rewards to the winners alongside official prizes, further motivating the young champions.
At the end of the keen contest, winners emerged in both categories:
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Primary Schools: Njoagwuani Jessica of Gbenupo Primary School 1 (1st), Amosu Sesieyon of St. Thomas Anglican Primary School (2nd), and Owolabi David of Local Authority Primary School, Ajara (3rd).
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Secondary Schools: Alohutade Gloria Semande of Government Senior College (1st), Taiwo Anthony of Ikoga Senior Grammar School (2nd), and Peter Adeshewa of Badagry Senior Grammar School (3rd).
These winners will proudly represent Badagry at the state grand finale in Lagos.
The event drew a vibrant crowd, including the Vice-Chairman, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi; councillors led by Leader of the House, Hon. Asokere Mautin; teachers, pupils, students; and members of the APC Women’s Wing led by Mrs. Atoyebi Afusat — all showing strong community support for education and youth development.
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