The Nigerian Girls’ Guide Association (NGGA), Afikpo Division, successfully hosted the second edition of its annual spelling bee competition on 18 October 2025 at Amuro Town Hall, Afikpo, Ebonyi State. The event drew participation from more than 400 pupils across the region, competing in two categories: a junior division for ages 6 to 8 and a senior division for ages 9 to 13.
The programme was made possible through sponsorship from notable supporters including Dr. Otu Nnachi Chukwuemeka, Mrs. Abba-Njoku Edith, who is the State Commissioner of the NGGA, and Chief Unya Effor, General Manager of Unity FM.
In the junior category, 7-year-old Maya Nwauzor of Arch Bishop Akinola International School, Afikpo emerged champion. The second position went to Otu-Ali Godwin, an 8-year-old pupil of Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Staff Primary School. Six-year-old Azubuike Everjoy Uchechi of Kingdom Heritage Nursery and Primary School, Afikpo secured third place.
The senior category also delivered outstanding performances. Oko Shulamite Ogeri, a 9-year-old Primary 5 pupil of Rhema International School, took the top prize. Second place was earned by Inya Desire Nneoma, a JSS 3 student of Rhema International College, while Uche Possible Michael, an 11-year-old JSS 2 student of Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Staff School, claimed third place.
Parents, school representatives, and community leaders were in attendance to cheer the contestants, while judges commended the participants for exhibiting confidence, intelligence, and strong spelling abilities.
The Chairperson of the planning committee, Mrs. Chiamaka Nvene, expressed pride in the steady growth of the competition and reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining literacy-focused initiatives for children in Afikpo and beyond.
The divisional commissioner, Mrs. Uche-Nwachi Margaret, praised the impressive turnout and said the competition is helping to strengthen literacy and confidence among young pupils in Afikpo. She noted that the initiative is part of NGGA’s commitment to raising intellectually empowered girls and boys who can excel academically.
The NGGA Afikpo Division noted that preparations for the next edition will begin soon, with expectations for even wider participation and greater impact in promoting academic excellence among young learners.
Gift Adene served as both the host and chief pronouncer for the highly competitive event.