An 11-year-old student, Miss Amazing-Grace Salami from Greenspill International School, Abuja, has won the Spelling Bee in Nigeria (SpIN) competition. Salami defeated 63 other finalists from the United States and international schools in Nigeria to claim the top prize. The Acting U.S. Consul General, Ms JoEllen Gorg, announced this at the 2025 Grand Finale of the inaugural Spelling Bee in Nigeria, held in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Friday. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that SpIN is affiliated with the Scripps National Spelling Bee, which was established in 1925. The competition began in August 2024 with 200 students from 15 schools across the country. This year’s event coincided with the 100th anniversary of the United States’ National Spelling Bee. Gorg announced that the second runner-up was Miss Ifeoluwapo Okuboyejo, while the third runner-up was Miss Naomi Ociuco. She said Salami would represent Nigeria on the global stage at the centennial edition of the Scripps National Spelling Bee in the United States. The Acting Consul General added that Salami would receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to participate in the historic event. Salami will also receive $500 spending money, an engraved trophy, Indomie products, a gold medal, and a one-year Merriam-Webster dictionary subscription worth $10,000. “The second and third runners-up will receive Indomie products, $100 spending money, silver and bronze medals, citations, and an invitation to attend the centenary edition in the U.S. “They will also get automatic entry into the semi-finals of the next edition, a citation of recognition, and a novel worth ₦20,000. “Although this is Nigeria’s first edition, in the United States, we have celebrated 100 years of spelling excellence. It is an honour to welcome Nigeria. “At today’s Grand Finale, we proudly present 64 outstanding finalists from Abuja, Lagos, Osun, and Taraba States, all competing for the prestigious title of Nigeria’s first SpIN champion. “Excitingly, three additional finalists will have the opportunity to join the champions as part of Nigeria’s delegation. “This ensures continued participation and inspires future generations,” she said. Gorg described spelling as a valuable skill for young people and hoped the experience inspired the contestants. She expressed confidence that the participants would use their knowledge to achieve great things, including studying in the United States and contributing to Nigeria’s development. She also found inspiration in Salami’s name, “Amazing-Grace,” saying it symbolised unity, peace, and prosperity between Nigeria and the United States. Speaking at the event, the convener, Eugenia Tachie-Menson, said the contestants’ brilliance went beyond memorising words, as they had mastered the fundamentals of the English language. “They have learned to analyse word structures, recall roots and origins, and apply linguistic knowledge across various academic disciplines. “These skills will benefit them beyond competitions, enhancing critical thinking, comprehension, and communication throughout their lives,” she said. The Executive Director of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, Ms Corrie Loeffler, said the competition continued to grow, proving the joy of learning and friendly rivalry. Loeffler thanked supporters, organisations, and educators for believing in the power of the competition to impact young lives positively. The CEO of the American Business Council in Nigeria, Mrs Margaret Olele, commended the finalists for their outstanding achievements. She said the event had brought together some of the most talented individuals, showcasing dedication and excellence. Olele emphasised the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders who would shape the future of industries and communities. Mr Femi Adenekan, District Governor of the Rotary Club of Victoria Island East, District 9112 Nigeria, highlighted Rotary’s commitment to education and literacy. He said supporting education initiatives in Nigeria would help create a more peaceful, educated, skilled, and empowered society. Mrs Kemi Salami, the winner’s mother, described her daughter as a determined child who worked hard despite her upcoming school exams. In her speech, Amazing-Grace Salami thanked the organisers for the opportunity and pledged to represent Nigeria well at the global competition. She promised to work even harder to make the country proud in the United States.