Lagos commisioner BSE Hails First Lady As 21st Spelling Bee Edition Kicks Off

The Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Toluani Alli-Balogun, has publicly praised the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her sustained contribution to educational advancement through the annual Spelling Bee competition. The accolades were delivered as the 21st edition of the highly anticipated contest commenced, underscoring the enduring legacy of the First Lady in the state’s education sector.

The Commissioner specifically highlighted the First Lady’s pivotal role in launching and sustaining the initiative during her tenure as the former First Lady of Lagos State. The competition, now a staple on the state's academic calendar, is recognized as a vital mechanism for educational development, consistently driving up standards in literacy and vocabulary across public schools.

​The commencement ceremony for the Junior Category of the 21st edition was organised in collaboration with the New Era Foundation, an organisation championed by the First Lady. A representative from the Commissioner’s office, speaking on behalf of the Ministry's Permanent Secretary, delivered official remarks affirming the initiative’s success in fostering strong academic excellence and leadership capabilities.

​The Spelling Bee has been described by stakeholders as one of the most impactful academic programmes in Nigeria, primarily for its proven track record. Over the years, the competition has been instrumental in producing outstanding young leaders, notably several who have gone on to serve as highly visible One-Day Governors for the State.

The continued robust support from the State Government and the New Era Foundation ensures that the competition will not only endure but also expand its reach. The 21st edition is poised to continue this tradition, cementing the Spelling Bee’s status as a transformative force in the lives of Lagos State’s public school pupils and setting them up for success in various spheres.