BENIN CITY — The Edo State Government has honored winners of the 2025 Statewide Mathematics Competition in a colourful event held at the Ministry of Education, as part of its commitment to nurturing academic brilliance and STEM innovation among school children.
Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, while presenting awards to the top three students, Alika Osezele, Isaac Karen, and Henry Johnson Onyekachujwu, hailed them as “trailblazers of a new generation of thinkers” and presented them with ₦100,000, ₦150,000, and ₦200,000 respectively.
The competition, organised by the Edo State branch of the Mathematical Association of Nigeria (MAN), drew participants from all 18 local government areas and featured weeks of intensive logic, problem-solving, and numerical exercises aimed at sharpening students’ minds in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
“Mathematics is more than numbers; it is the language of science, innovation, and the future,” Dr. Iyamu said.
“Today we are not just celebrating scores, but discipline, excellence, and the future of Edo State.”
He reaffirmed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to improving education infrastructure and teaching quality across the state, noting that recent government efforts include building new schools and hiring qualified teachers.
Dr. Iyamu advised students to remain focused on their studies and avoid distractions that could derail their futures.
He also urged parents to support their children’s academic goals, stressing that their success would bring long-term peace to families and the state.
Referencing the Governor’s previous rewards during Children’s Day celebrations, including two new buses for outstanding schools, the Commissioner assured students that excellence would continue to be recognised.
“This competition proves that hard work pays. The winners here today are an inspiration to their peers,” he said, adding that the initiative is a key part of the government’s broader education reform strategy to make Edo State a leader in academic innovation in Nigeria.
