Four exceptional Nigerian students are set to make history as they represent the country for the first time at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in Shanghai, China.
The prestigious international competition, scheduled to hold from July 10 to 20, will bring together some of the world’s brightest young spellers. The competition was led by 2026 African Spelling Bee Junior champion Oluwadamilola Adeolu, and the other three secured their place after outstanding performances at both the Nigeria Spelling Bee and the African Spelling Bee Championship.
However, the Nigerian contingent comprises Oluwadamilola Adeolu of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado-Ekiti; Abdurrahman Yusuf of Ar-Raheem International College, Ilorin; Chinedu Okediachi of Madonna International Schools, Asaba; and Maryam Yusuf of Ar-Raheem International College, Ilorin.
The Nigeria Spelling Bee described the country’s participation as a landmark achievement. While noting that the students’ journey began at the national competition before advancing to the African Spelling Bee Championship in Harare, Zimbabwe, and now to the global stage.
According to the organisers, the four students carry not only Nigeria’s hopes but also the pride of the African continent as they compete against the world’s young spellers.Â
Notably, Nigeria also heads into the competition on the back of a strong continental outing. Following the emergence as the second-best overall team at the African Spelling Bee Championship.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, the young participants expressed excitement about representing Nigeria internationally. Also expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Spelling Bee, their respective State Government, parents, coaches, teachers, and supporters for helping make the journey possible.
