Spelling Bee: Yobe governor reaffirms commitment to education
Spelling Bee: Yobe governor reaffirms commitment to education
Gov. Mai Mala Buni of Yobe has reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving education and strengthening effective service delivery across the state.
Buni spoke on Monday while inaugurating the third edition of the Yobe State Spelling Bee Competition in Damaturu.
He said the government’s commitment to education had resulted in substantial budgetary allocations for improving schools and learning facilities.
According to him, the allocations had supported school renovations, classroom construction and provision of teaching and learning materials.
He added that the government was also establishing mega schools across the state to expand access to quality education.
Buni said the interventions were already producing positive results, citing the achievements of three Yobe students at the 2025 Teen Eagle Competition.
The Voice Media Trust (VMT NEWS) reports that the students emerged winners in various categories of the competition held in the United Kingdom.
The governor said the achievement demonstrated the enormous potential of Yobe students and should inspire others to pursue academic excellence.
Buni described the spelling bee as more than a competition, saying it was designed to develop several essential skills among students.
He said the initiative promoted literacy, linguistic excellence, confidence, public speaking, critical thinking, memory skills and a culture of academic distinction.
The governor said 48 public schools and 25 private schools were participating, describing the turnout as evidence of inclusiveness.
He said the participation also demonstrated unity within the state’s education system and encouraged healthy competition among students.
Buni commended teachers and coaches for their sacrifices and dedication in preparing participants for the competition.
He also appreciated parents and guardians for instilling discipline and a love of learning in their children.
The governor acknowledged the organisers’ contributions, particularly Secretary to the State Government, Dr Mohammed Goje, who initiated the competition in 2024.
He said the competition had produced brilliant winners who continued to excel in their academic pursuits.
Addressing the 146 participants, Buni urged them to compete with integrity and avoid allowing pressure to overwhelm them.
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“Win or lose, you have already achieved greatness by reaching this stage,” Buni said.
He urged the participants to support one another and build friendships across school lines, regardless of their institutions.
The governor also reminded the students that character was as important as academic achievement.
“The spelling of a word may be forgotten, but the character you display today will be remembered forever,” he said.
Buni expressed appreciation to individuals and organisations that contributed to the competition’s success.
He prayed for a successful and hitch-free competition, while urging participants to demonstrate discipline, confidence and sportsmanship throughout the event.
