The third edition of the Yobe Spelling Bee has concluded with Nguru Local Government Area securing all three top positions in a rare clean sweep.
Zainab Mohammed Grema of Reading Model School, Nguru, was named overall winner. She was followed by Mohammed Ishaq Madaki of Government Day Junior Secondary School, Nglewa, as first runner-up, and Aisha Mohammed Alah of Honesty Secondary School, also in Nguru, as second runner-up.
A total of 146 pupils and students emerged as winners across the various stages of the competition, which organisers said highlighted the depth of talent among young people in the state.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Yobe State Secretary to the Government Dr Mohammed Goje congratulated the winners and all participants. He praised their discipline and knowledge, noting that taking part itself was an achievement that helped build confidence.
Dr Goje also thanked teachers, parents, schools and organisers for their roles in the event’s success. He singled out Nguru’s historic sweep as evidence of what can be achieved when students receive proper encouragement and support.
The competition forms part of the state government’s wider efforts under Governor Mai Mala Buni to strengthen education through academic contests, scholarships and improved infrastructure.
Organisers said the Spelling Bee aims to promote reading, vocabulary, public speaking and healthy competition among children across Yobe State.
