By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Madonna International Schools Asaba has been selected to represent Nigeria at the upcoming African Spelling Bee Championship in Zimbabwe, scheduled for March 2026.
The feat comes after the school’s representatives, Master Okediachi Great Chinedu (Junior Category) and Master Chukwubuikem Richard Uchendu (Senior Category), emerged winners at the National Spelling Bee in Port Harcourt, having earlier triumphed at the Delta State qualifiers.
Speaking in Asaba, the School Director, Mr. Ijomah Obiosa, expressed pride in the achievement, describing it as a reward for years of dedication to academic excellence.
“We are honoured to fly the Nigerian flag at such a respected international event. What happened was a constant trend of winning trophies. Some students from Delta State recently went to Qatar and won the World Debate Competition. This is just a stepping stone for Madonna International Schools. We are going to Zimbabwe to make Nigerians proud, and I am very sure that by the time we are done in Africa, we will represent the world and come out victorious,” Obiosa said.
He commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritising education in Delta State, noting that the creation of separate commissioners for Technical, Basic and Secondary, and Primary Education has strengthened the system. He also acknowledged the support of the governor’s aide, Mr. Nicholas Ojei, Special Adviser on Special Duties, who facilitated the school’s participation.
“This opportunity is a testament to the hard work of our students and the commitment of our teaching staff, which places strong emphasis on literacy, critical thinking, and competitive learning,” Obiosa added.
One of the winners, Master Okediachi Great Chinedu, described his victory as fulfilling. “The competition was like a spellable contest. I felt good because they taught me well. It was a talent from childhood. If I win in Zimbabwe, I will be very proud of myself,” he said.
On his part, Master Chukwubuikem Richard Uchendu said representing Nigeria was a dream come true. “I felt elated representing Nigeria in the National Spelling Bee. Education is not a scam. If they say education is a scam, why do our entertainers and politicians still go to school? Nigerians should expect an award, and they will be proud of us,” he stated.
He further commended the Delta education system, saying, “Our teachers are doing excellently well. Madonna International Schools is a place every child should go to because they taught us to be morally and spiritually equipped. I advise government to keep funding education because school is not a scam.”