From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has restated his administration’s firm commitment to overhauling education as he formally opened the 3rd Yobe State Spelling Bee Competition in Damaturu.
The event took place at the NEDC Hall, Government Girls’ College, Damaturu, and assembled bright students from across the state to celebrate literacy, academic excellence and intellectual growth.
Governor Buni, represented by Deputy Governor Hon. Idi Barde Gubana, described the Spelling Bee as a valued tradition that reflects the shared resolve of government, teachers, parents and other stakeholders to advance learning and nurture a generation of confident, academically strong young people.
He noted that education has been a top priority since his administration began, adding that government has committed significant resources to the sector through renovation of existing schools, building new mega schools and rolling out various education interventions statewide.
According to Buni, the sustained investment is yielding tangible results. He cited the success of three Yobe students who emerged as winners in different categories of the TeenEagle International Competition in the United Kingdom over the last three years.
Such feats, he said, show what Yobe students can achieve when given the right opportunities, quality instruction and a supportive learning environment.
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The Governor applauded teachers, coaches and education administrators for their commitment and sacrifices, assuring them that their work in shaping the state’s future would be rewarded.
He also highlighted the critical role of parents and guardians as children’s first teachers, noting that their discipline, values and encouragement greatly shape students’ attitude and performance.
As part of efforts to promote academic excellence and inclusiveness, Governor Buni announced cash prizes for competition winners, members of the judging panel, and a child with special needs.
Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Associate Professor Abba Idris Adam, represented by Permanent Secretary Muhammad Hadi, said the Spelling Bee was created to boost literacy, sharpen spelling skills, broaden vocabulary, deepen conceptual understanding and promote proper use of the English language.
He commended the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Abubakar K. Zaid, for establishing a platform that drives academic excellence, strengthens literacy, fosters educational resilience and enables peer learning among talented students from across Yobe.