Nigerian govt rewards teenager who won global English contest with N200,000

The Federal Government has honoured 17-year-old Nafisa Abdullahi from Yobe State after she emerged winner of the TeenEagle global finals in London, where she was named World Best in English.

At a recognition event in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suiwaba Ahmad, presented Nafisa with N200,000 and praised her achievement.

They described her as “a beacon of excellence and inspiration to Nigerian youths.”

Recall a DAILY POST report where some northerners had complained about Nigerian government’s silence on reward or acknowledgment of the student’s performance.

Representing Nigeria through the Nigerian Tulip International College, Nafisa competed against more than 20,000 students from 69 countries — including native English-speaking nations — and came out top.

The TeenEagle contest is an international competition that tests students in English language, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Earlier, the Atiku Foundation had also rewarded Nafisa and her teammates, Rukaiya Fema and Khadija Kalli, with fully-funded scholarships for their “remarkable success” at the global event.

Speaking at the ceremony, Alausa said the Federal Government is working to strengthen the education system and reduce the number of out-of-school children. He pointed out that President Bola Tinubu has made education a priority.

“You are the future of Nigeria, and you have made us proud. For the first time in the history of our nation, we have one of the highest budgetary allocations to education.

“Each time we approach the President for support in the sector, his response has been a resounding ‘yes’ because he believes in you, the children of Nigeria.

“Your success gives us the confidence to ask for more, and we will continue to do so on your behalf,” he said.

The minister also announced an additional cash gift of more than N100,000 to Nafisa and other students who excelled in different fields.

Professor Ahmad praised Nafisa’s determination and brilliance, adding: “Nigerian youths can compete and excel globally. Nafisa has demonstrated that Nigeria is blessed and can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world. You are a shining example.”

She encouraged Nafisa to see her victory as the start of an even greater journey, while thanking her parents and teachers for their role in her success.

In her remarks, Nafisa thanked President Tinubu, the ministers, her school NTIC, and her parents for their support.

Yobe State Commissioner for Basic Education, Prof. Abba Idris, also expressed gratitude, noting that the state government continues to celebrate achievements in education.

Nigerian govt rewards teenager who won global English contest with N200,000