Delta State Governor rewards Spelling Bee world champion with N20m.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has rewarded Great Chinedu Okediashi with ₦20 million after the young student emerged champion of the World Spelling Bee Championship in China.
The governor presented the reward during an event at the Government House in Asaba, where Okediashi formally presented the championship trophy to the state government alongside officials of the Ministry of Secondary Education.
Oborevwori also pledged support for Madonna International School, where the student is enrolled, recognising the institution's role in helping him achieve the international feat.
Governor Highlights Investment in Education
Speaking during the ceremony, Oborevwori described education as one of the most valuable investments that parents and governments can make in the lives of young people.
He said the state's continued investment in education was producing results that extend beyond Nigeria, pointing to Okediashi's victory as evidence that students from Delta State can compete successfully on the international stage.
The governor emphasised that while material wealth can be lost, education remains a lasting asset that can benefit individuals throughout their lives.
He said the state would continue to prioritise education and create opportunities for students to develop their talents and compete globally.
Another International Achievement for Delta
Okediashi's victory adds to a growing list of international academic achievements involving students from Delta State.
Oborevwori recalled that students from the state were part of Nigeria's winning team at the World Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, last year.
According to the governor, the latest spelling bee victory further demonstrates the impact of the state's education policies and investments.
He congratulated Okediashi for bringing the World Spelling Bee trophy to Delta State and Nigeria, describing the achievement as a source of pride for the state.
The governor also praised the student's parents for the support and encouragement they provided throughout his academic journey.
Education Commissioner Commends Champion
The Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr Kingsley Ashibuogwu, described Okediashi's achievement as a major accomplishment for Delta State, Nigeria and Africa.
He noted that the return of the championship trophy to the continent was significant and attributed the victory to the student's determination, hard work and the support he received from his family, school and the state government.
Ashibuogwu also acknowledged the role played by the government in supporting the student throughout the competition.
He said the encouragement, follow-up, prayers and financial assistance provided during the competition contributed to the successful outcome.
The commissioner congratulated Okediashi and expressed confidence that his achievement would inspire other young people to pursue academic excellence and participate in international competitions.
Student Promises More Excellence
Responding to the recognition, Okediashi expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for the ₦20 million reward and the support extended to him.
The young champion pledged to continue working hard academically and to seek more opportunities to represent Delta State and Nigeria on the international stage.
His achievement has placed him among a growing number of Nigerian students making their mark in international academic competitions, highlighting the potential of young Nigerians when given the right support and opportunities.
More Recognition for Okediashi
The governor's reward is not the first major recognition Okediashi has received following his victory.
Days before the presentation at the Government House, the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, awarded the young champion a full scholarship covering his university education.
The scholarship was presented in recognition of his outstanding performance at the World Spelling Bee Championship in China.
The additional support means Okediashi has received significant recognition from both the traditional institution and the Delta State Government for his achievement.
A Boost for Young Nigerian Talent
Okediashi's success demonstrates the potential of Nigerian students to excel in highly competitive international academic contests when they receive adequate preparation and support.
His victory has also brought attention to the importance of spelling, literacy and academic competitions as platforms for identifying and nurturing exceptional young talent.
For Delta State, the achievement provides another opportunity to showcase the impact of investment in education while encouraging other students to pursue excellence in their chosen fields.
The ₦20 million reward, alongside the university scholarship and support promised to his school, represents a significant investment in a young student whose achievement has brought recognition to Delta State, Nigeria and Africa.
As Okediashi continues his education, his World Spelling Bee victory is likely to serve as both a personal milestone and an inspiration to other Nigerian students who aspire to compete and succeed on the global stage.