Nigeria to host the 7th African Spelling Bee from April 9 – 13, making it the first West African nation to host the esteemed competition.
National Coordinator of the Nigeria Spelling Bee, Mr. Abdulsalam Ibrahim announced this milestone during an interview in Abuja, on Monday.
The Nigeria Spelling Bee, under the Bee Spelling Competition Initiative, will serve as the local organizing committee for the event and has the backing of the Federal Ministry of Education.
This organization conducts spelling competitions throughout Nigeria and represents the country in international forums, including the African Spelling Bee.
Ibrahim emphasized that the African Spelling Bee aims to celebrate the African child, promote literacy, and build connections among young learners while enhancing academic excellence and reading culture.
The competition also focuses on developing self-esteem, and inter-personal skills, and fostering community partnerships, reflecting the cultural diversity and unity of African children.
This year’s ASB will bring together top National Spelling Bee champions from over 20 African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa, competing for the title of African Spelling Bee champion in both senior and junior categories.
Ibrahim noted Nigeria’s strong performance in previous editions, as the country prepares to defend its senior championship title.
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“The ASB embodies the spirit of Pan-Africanism by uniting young people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate linguistic prowess and cultural heritage.
“Through spelling competitions, African general knowledge quizzes, and cultural exchanges, the event fosters unity and mutual respect among participants, nurturing a generation poised to lead and transform the continent,” he said.
He highlighted the event’s goal of celebrating Africa’s linguistic, and cultural heritage and the commitment to education, unity, and excellence among the youth.
Since its commencement in 2016, the African Spelling Bee has been held in South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi.
