JOS STUDENTS EXCEL IN NIGERIA’S FIRST AGRICULTURAL SPELLING BEE, WIN SCHOLARSHIP PRIZES
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BY MUNIRAT BALOGUN
The future of Nigerian agriculture received a creative boost at the weekend as 90 students from three secondary schools in Chugwi community, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, competed in the country’s first-ever Agricultural Spelling Bee Competition.
Theevent, tagged “Project Green Words: Fation Spelling Bee,” was organised by Fation Roots, a youth-led agricultural company promoting innovation in Nigeria’s agri-food value chain. The initiative, held at the Bagos Hall, Vom, was launched to encourage young students to see agriculture as a modern, knowledge-driven career path. Participating schools included New Life High School Dandyes Chugwi, Government Junior Secondary School Chugwi, and George Williams Academy Darangi Chugwi.
The competition took an unconventional approach by focusing entirely on agricultural terminology, from soil science to crop production, allowing students to learn while competing. Ahead of the contest, the organisers hosted a “watch party” in May 2025, where students watched international spelling bee events to familiarise themselves with the format. This preparation paid off, as the participants showcased impressive confidence and accuracy during the event, which began at 8:00 a.m.
The final stages of the competition saw a fierce display of spelling prowess, with several tie-breakers keeping the audience on edge. After several intense rounds, Gambo Victor of George Williams Academy Chugwi emerged as the overall winner, followed by Joseph Chomo of Government Junior Secondary School Chugwi in second place, and Margaret Yakubu of George Williams Academy Chugwi in third place. The winners received scholarship cash prizes to support their education and encourage continued interest in agriculture.
Speaking after the event, a representative of Project Green Words praised the students’ performance, describing it as a reflection of Nigeria’s youthful potential in agriculture. “Our initiative is a beautiful way to inspire young minds for agriculture,” the representative said. “The brilliance and commitment displayed by these students prove that the next generation is ready to lead the charge in feeding our nation.”
Following the success of the maiden edition, the organisers announced plans to expand the programme, with “Fation Spelling Bee 2.0” scheduled for 2026. The next edition will include more schools and communities to deepen awareness and interest in the agricultural sector. The Project Green Words Spelling Bee has been widely commended as a refreshing initiative that blends learning and entertainment to promote agricultural education among Nigerian youths.
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