Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has rewarded teenage spelling sensation, Master Great Chinedu Okediashi, with N20 million after his remarkable victory at the World Spelling Bee Championship in China.
The cash reward was announced on Friday at the Government House in Asaba when the young champion officially presented the prestigious trophy to the governor alongside officials from the Ministry of Secondary Education.
Celebrating the achievement, Oborevwori described the global triumph as clear evidence that Delta State’s sustained investment in education is producing outstanding results on the world stage.
“We don’t play with education in Delta State because it is the greatest legacy anyone can give to a child.
”Wealth can disappear, but education remains with you throughout your lifetime, “‘ he said.
The governor said the latest victory added to Delta’s growing reputation for academic excellence, recalling that students from the state were part of Nigeria’s team that won the World Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, last year.
“Victory is not a surprise to us in Delta State. Last year, Nigeria, precisely Delta State, won the world debate championship in Doha, and today Master Great Chinedu Okediashi has brought the World Spelling Bee Cup from China to Delta State. It shows that our investment in education is working, ” he said.
Oborevwori stressed that beyond constructing school facilities, his administration is committed to building a strong educational foundation capable of producing globally competitive students.
The governor also applauded Okediashi’s parents for their role in nurturing his talent, saying they deserved recognition despite being absent from the ceremony.
He also announced that the state government would provide additional support to Madonna International School, where the champion is enrolled.
Earlier, Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu, described the victory as a historic milestone for Delta State, Nigeria, and Africa, noting that the championship trophy had finally returned to the continent.
He credited the governor’s financial assistance, encouragement, and consistent support throughout the competition as key factors behind the team’s success.
“Today, the trophy is back in Africa, back in Nigeria and now proudly in Delta State, ” he said.
Receiving applause at the ceremony, Master Great Chinedu Okediashi thanked Governor Oborevwori for believing in him and pledged to continue making Delta State and Nigeria proud through future international achievements.
