By Ikechukwe Samuel
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has rewarded Master Great Chinedu Okediachi with N20 million after the student emerged winner of the 2026 World Spelling Bee Championship in Shanghai, China.
The governor said the student’s achievement demonstrates the positive impact of Delta State’s sustained investment in education and academic excellence.
Oborevwori announced the cash reward on Friday at the Government House, Asaba, while receiving the championship trophy from the student alongside officials of the Ministry of Secondary Education.
He also pledged support for Madonna International School, Asaba, in recognition of the institution’s role in nurturing the world champion.
Speaking during the reception, the governor described education as the greatest investment any government or parent could make in a child’s future.
“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. That is why we continue to invest heavily in education,” he said.
Oborevwori noted that the latest international victory further reinforces Delta State’s growing reputation for academic excellence on the global stage.
He recalled that students from Delta State were members of Nigeria’s team that won the World Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar, last year.
“Last year, Nigeria, precisely Delta State, won the world debate championship in Doha, and today Master Great Chinedu Okediachi has brought the World Spelling Bee Cup from China to Delta State. It shows that our investment in education is working,” the governor added.
He commended the student’s parents for their commitment, discipline and support, describing them as worthy partners in the success story.
According to the governor, families play a critical role in producing academically outstanding children capable of representing Nigeria on the global stage.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr Kingsley Ashibuogwu, described the victory as a historic achievement for Delta State, Nigeria and the African continent.
He said the World Spelling Bee Championship trophy had returned to Africa through the outstanding performance of the Delta student.
Ashibuogwu attributed the success to years of dedication by the student as well as the encouragement and support provided by the Delta State Government.
“Your encouragement, constant follow-up, prayers and financial support played a significant role in this success. Today, the trophy is back in Africa, back in Nigeria and now proudly in Delta State,” he said.
Responding, Okediachi thanked Governor Oborevwori for the honour and pledged to continue working hard to achieve greater academic success while bringing more international recognition to Delta State and Nigeria.
The latest recognition comes only days after the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN), awarded the young champion a full university scholarship in recognition of his outstanding achievement at the World Spelling Bee Championship in China.
