News
Nigeria to host 7th African Spelling Bee April 9
Nigeria is set to host the 7th African Spelling Bee (ASB) from April 9 to 13, marking the first time the prestigious competition will be held in a West African nation.
National Coordinator of the Nigeria Spelling Bee, Mr Abdulsalam Ibrahim, announced this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Monday.
Established in 2016, the ASB has previously been hosted by South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi.
The Nigeria Spelling Bee, operating under the Bee Spelling Competition Initiative, serves as the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for this year’s event.
Endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Education, the organisation conducts spelling competitions across all Nigerian states and represents the country in international contests, including the ASB.
According to Ibrahim, the African Spelling Bee was founded with the vision of celebrating the African child, inspiring literacy, and creating a platform for connection and confidence-building among young learners.
He stated that the competition aims to enhance literacy and academic excellence while cultivating a strong reading culture.
The national coordinator noted that the competition also seeks to develop self-esteem and interpersonal skills while building human capital through capacity development.
He said it also aims to promote community-based partnerships and celebrate the cultural diversity and unity of African children.
He noted that this year’s event will bring together the top National Spelling Bee Champions from over 20 African countries.
They include; Benin, Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
“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”.
Ibrahim highlighted Nigeria’s strong track record in the ASB, having secured multiple championship titles in previous editions.
He also noted that Nigerian spellers are preparing to defend the Senior Championship title won by Praises Minabowa in the last African Spelling Bee, reflecting the nation’s commitment to educational excellence and youth development.
“The upcoming event in Abuja is expected to be the largest yet, with more than 20 African countries anticipated to participate, each presenting their top six champions vying for the coveted title of African Spelling Bee Champion in both the senior and junior categories.
“Beyond being a competition, the event will be a celebration of Africa’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage, reflecting the continent’s dedication to fostering education, unity, and excellence among its youth,” Ibrahim said. (NAN)
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
In the heart of Southern Kaduna, where the demand for quality education, accessible healthcare, and economic empowerment continues to grow, one leader has emerged as a beacon of hope—Senator Sunday Marshall Katung. His tenure in the Senate has not only been marked by passionate advocacy but also by tangible results that have transformed lives and communities.
True leadership is measured by impact, not just words. Since assuming office, Senator Katung has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his people, pushing for policies and initiatives that directly address their needs. His legislative efforts have focused on critical areas such as education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development.
One of his most transformative achievements is his role in the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia—a milestone that will provide thousands of young people with access to technical and vocational education. This university is set to bridge the gap between education and employability, equipping students with practical skills for the modern job market.
In the healthcare sector, Senator Katung’s advocacy for the upgrade of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Kafanchan has led to improved medical services, better healthcare infrastructure, and greater access to specialized treatment for residents. His unwavering support for healthcare initiatives continues to improve the quality of life in his constituency.
Beyond legislation, Senator Katung has taken bold steps to empower his constituents economically. Through targeted vocational training programs and financial grants, he has supported over 1,000 small businesses and entrepreneurs across Southern Kaduna. Women and youth, in particular, have benefitted from these initiatives, enabling them to achieve financial independence and contribute to the local economy.
Additionally, his scholarship programs have opened doors for students who might have otherwise been unable to afford higher education. So many students have benefitted from these educational interventions, reinforcing his belief that investing in the youth is the key to a brighter future.
At a time when political divisions often slow down progress, Senator Katung has proven to be a unifying force. His ability to work across party lines to pass crucial legislation underscores his commitment to governance over partisanship. He maintains an open-door policy, engaging with his constituents regardless of political affiliation, and ensuring that every voice is heard in the Senate.
Perhaps the most significant testament to Senator Katung’s leadership is the overwhelming support he enjoys from his people. Whether through community engagements or social media interactions, the gratitude and admiration from his constituents reflect the deep impact of his work.
As he continues his journey of service, his vision remains clear: to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and developed Southern Kaduna. With a track record of achievements and an unshakable commitment to the welfare of his people, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung is not just a politician—he is a leader whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
By Israel Bulus
In the heart of Southern Kaduna, where the demand for quality education, accessible healthcare, and economic empowerment continues to grow, one leader has emerged as a beacon of hope—Senator Sunday Marshall Katung. His tenure in the Senate has not only been marked by passionate advocacy but also by tangible results that have transformed lives and communities.
True leadership is measured by impact, not just words. Since assuming office, Senator Katung has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his people, pushing for policies and initiatives that directly address their needs. His legislative efforts have focused on critical areas such as education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development.
One of his most transformative achievements is his role in the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia—a milestone that will provide thousands of young people with access to technical and vocational education. This university is set to bridge the gap between education and employability, equipping students with practical skills for the modern job market.
In the healthcare sector, Senator Katung’s advocacy for the upgrade of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Kafanchan has led to improved medical services, better healthcare infrastructure, and greater access to specialized treatment for residents. His unwavering support for healthcare initiatives continues to improve the quality of life in his constituency.
Beyond legislation, Senator Katung has taken bold steps to empower his constituents economically. Through targeted vocational training programs and financial grants, he has supported over 1,000 small businesses and entrepreneurs across Southern Kaduna. Women and youth, in particular, have benefitted from these initiatives, enabling them to achieve financial independence and contribute to the local economy.
Additionally, his scholarship programs have opened doors for students who might have otherwise been unable to afford higher education. So many students have benefitted from these educational interventions, reinforcing his belief that investing in the youth is the key to a brighter future.
At a time when political divisions often slow down progress, Senator Katung has proven to be a unifying force. His ability to work across party lines to pass crucial legislation underscores his commitment to governance over partisanship. He maintains an open-door policy, engaging with his constituents regardless of political affiliation, and ensuring that every voice is heard in the Senate.
Perhaps the most significant testament to Senator Katung’s leadership is the overwhelming support he enjoys from his people. Whether through community engagements or social media interactions, the gratitude and admiration from his constituents reflect the deep impact of his work.
As he continues his journey of service, his vision remains clear: to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and developed Southern Kaduna. With a track record of achievements and an unshakable commitment to the welfare of his people, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung is not just a politician—he is a leader whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
End.
By Israel Bulus
The Kaduna State Government has assured that it will revive scholarships for young sports enthusiasts as part of efforts to promote talent development and youth engagement.
The State Commissioner for Sports, Professor Benjamin Gugwong, gave this assurance on behalf of the government on Sunday during the kickoff of a unity football competition organized by Kamrum Integrated Farms in Zango Kataf Local Government Area.
Gugwong emphasized the government’s commitment to nurturing sports talents, stating that reviving the scholarship scheme will provide young athletes with opportunities to further their education while excelling in their chosen sports.
He commended Kamrum Integrated Farms for organizing the competition, describing it as a vital initiative that fosters unity and peace among youths in the state.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Kamrum Integrated Farms, Mr. Rijo Shekari, explained that the competition was conceived to promote peace and youth development within the area.
” Sports has a unique way of bringing people together, and through this tournament, he hopes to encourage youth participation in productive activities while identifying and nurturing football talents.
In their show of support, the Chairman of the Kaduna Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), Mr. Jerry Adams, announced a donation of ₦500,000, and the Chairman of Kaura Local Government Area, Mr. Sankye Obadiah also gave ₦200,000 towards the competition, promising continued support for initiatives that promote youth empowerment and community engagement.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chairman of Zango Kataf Local Government, the Vice Chairman, Mr. Godwin Ishaya Dandaura, commended Mr. Shekari for organizing the tournament.
He urged all participating teams to play with the spirit of sportsmanship, stressing that the competition should not be seen as a do-or-die affair but as a platform to build friendships and unity.
Also speaking, the Chairman, organising committee of the tournament, Mr. Gunners James, said the winner of the competition will receive one million naira cash price aside from the trophy, while the first runner up will get five hundred thousand naira.
ELANZA NEWS reports that a total of twenty-three football teams have registered to participate in the competition.