The One-Day Governor of Lagos State and winner of the 21st Lagos State Spelling Bee Competition, Miss Esther Etiyemonu, has commended Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for what she described as transformative achievements in education, transportation, security and infrastructure across the state.
Etiyemonu spoke on Monday during a reception hosted by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Sanwo-Olu, at the State House, Marina, Lagos.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Adepeju Adeyemi, Etiyemonu noted that ongoing investments in transportation infrastructure have significantly improved mobility and accessibility across the state.
“She applauded the administration’s investments in education, including teacher recruitment, establishment of technical colleges, digital skills training programmes, upgrading of tertiary institutions, staff housing development and renovation of public secondary school libraries,” the statement said.
The One-Day Governor, who was hosted by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, on behalf of the First Lady, appealed for the provision of a school bus for Lagos State Senior Model College, Igbokuta, citing logistical challenges faced by students due to the school’s location on the outskirts of Imota.
She also requested consideration for suitable accommodation for her parent within the state.
Etiyemonu expressed appreciation to her school, the Principal, Mrs. Olusola Ajayi, teachers, mentors, coaches and fellow contestants for their support and guidance.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, urged the students to become change makers and influencers of positive thought, recommending the book The Man in the Arena and advising them to shun societal vices capable of derailing their academic pursuits.
In her remarks, Mrs. Hamzat encouraged the students to remain disciplined and focused, cautioning them against negative influences, particularly on social media, and reminding them of their roles as ambassadors of Lagos State.
She commended President Bola Tinubu and Senator Oluremi Tinubu for sustaining the Spelling Bee initiative, describing it as a laudable programme shaping young Nigerians.
During a visit to the Lagos State Judiciary, the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, stressed that effective education is a shared responsibility between parents and teachers.
“Teachers deserve the best treatment and recognition in society, as they are the foundation of all professions,” Alogba said, cautioning parents against encouraging examination malpractice and “special centres.”
The Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, congratulated Etiyemonu on her achievement, describing spelling and literacy as critical foundations for learning, communication and leadership.
He urged the students to cultivate habits of continuous learning and reminded the One-Day Governor that leadership is rooted in service, integrity and responsibility.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, described the annual One-Day Governor celebration as historic, urging the students to be good ambassadors of their schools and communities.
“As a state, we are nurturing future leaders and building character. Parents must continue to mentor their children in the right ways to portray good values,” he said.
He highlighted government achievements, including increased participation in academic competitions and recruitment of teachers, and commended the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) for organising the programme.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, said the One-Day Governor initiative exposes young people to governance and leadership, inspiring civic responsibility.
Other officials, including Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, Education District II, Mr. Sanni Omotayo Layemo, and Director-General of OEQA, Dr. Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, congratulated the students and encouraged others to emulate their dedication to academics and leadership.
Laptops were presented to the winners to support their educational development, while senior officials attended the closing events.
The Lagos State Spelling Bee was established in 2001 by Senator Oluremi Tinubu through the New Era Foundation and has grown into one of the state’s most impactful academic competitions, spanning all 57 LGAs and LCDAs.
Etiyemonu was accompanied by the One-Day Deputy Governor, Miss Dorcas Awoyemi, and the One-Day Secretary to the State Government, Miss Jumai Salami.
