The Federal Government has officially honoured 17-year-old Nafisa Abdullahi from Yobe State with a cash award of ₦200,000 following her exceptional performance at the TeenEagle Global Finals in London. At the highly competitive event, Nafisa outshone participants from 69 different countries to be named World Best in English, an achievement that has positioned her as one of the brightest young academic talents in Nigeria.
The award presentation took place in Abuja on Thursday and was personally conducted by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa. The minister described the achievement as not only a personal victory for Nafisa but also a historic milestone for Nigeria on the global stage. He emphasized that her performance highlighted the limitless potential of Nigerian students when given the right platform and support. According to him, Nafisa’s victory is proof that the nation can compete and excel even against native English-speaking countries in the world’s most demanding competitions.
Nafisa did not stand alone in this remarkable journey. Alongside her were fellow champions Rukaiya Fema and Khadija Kalli, who were also recognized for their outstanding achievements. Prior to the Federal Government’s award, the trio had already been celebrated by the Atiku Abubakar Foundation, which granted them fully-funded scholarships in recognition of their excellent performance at the global finals. This combined support from both private and public institutions has further reinforced the significance of their accomplishment.
Standing out among competitors, Nafisa was commended for her exceptional command of the English language, strong critical thinking skills, and articulate delivery. These qualities earned her the prestigious global title and marked the first time a Nigerian student has recorded such a groundbreaking victory at the TeenEagle competition. Her success not only brought glory to her family and school, Nigerian Tulip International College, but also served as a source of national pride.
During the ceremony, Dr. Tunji Alausa described Nafisa as “a shining example of resilience, talent, and excellence.” He noted that her achievement is a clear reflection of the Federal Government’s renewed investment in education under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He pointed out that for the first time in Nigeria’s history, education has received one of the highest budgetary allocations, showing the government’s commitment to developing young talents and ensuring Nigeria’s youth can compete globally. The minister further disclosed that each time the education ministry approaches President Tinubu for support, the president has consistently given his full approval, showing deep faith in Nigerian children as the future of the nation.
Dr. Alausa went on to announce that other Nigerian students who had excelled in international competitions would also be rewarded with additional cash prizes exceeding ₦100,000. This move, according to him, is to encourage more young Nigerians to work hard, strive for excellence, and represent the country with pride on the global stage.
The Minister of State for Education, Professor Suiwaba Ahmad, who was also present at the ceremony, commended Nafisa for her determination and discipline. She encouraged the young champion to view her victory not as the final destination but as the beginning of even greater opportunities. She stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to providing opportunities for Nigerian youths who continue to excel globally. In her words, “Nafisa has proven that Nigerian youths are capable of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world. She is a shining example that will inspire millions of others.”
In her response, Nafisa Abdullahi expressed deep gratitude to the Federal Government, the Atiku Abubakar Foundation, her school Nigerian Tulip International College, and her parents for the moral and financial support she received throughout the competition. She explained that the encouragement from her teachers, peers, and family helped her to remain focused and confident in London, eventually leading her to victory.
The event also had in attendance the Yobe State Commissioner for Basic Education, Professor Abba Idris, who hailed Nafisa’s global triumph as a victory for both Yobe State and Nigeria at large. He assured that the state government would continue to prioritize education, invest in academic excellence, and celebrate young students who achieve global recognition. According to him, Nafisa’s achievement is proof that Nigeria’s next generation can shape the future positively when equipped with the right tools, support, and opportunities.
Nafisa’s victory at the TeenEagle Global Finals has not only brought her personal honour but has also boosted Nigeria’s image as a nation blessed with intelligent, resilient, and world-class youths. Her story continues to inspire millions of young Nigerians to aim higher, reminding them that with hard work and dedication, global recognition is within reach.