Jare Olukotun
The Executive Chairman, Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele, has honoured the winner of the 2025 Spelling Bee Competition in Lagos State, Miss Esther Etiyemonu, a student of Lagos State Senior Model College, Igbokuta, in Imota LCDA, for her academic feat.
Miss Esther Etiyemonu who emerged as the overall winner of the 21st edition of the annual event about two weeks ago, at the grand finale event held at the BlueRoof, LTV, Ikeja, was presented with N1million cash by the Imota chairman while hosting her at the council secretariat in Imota on Monday, in appreciation of making his council proud.
She is expected to be honoured by the State Government as a One -Day Governor of the state.
Hon. Benson Ayodele, in his speech, said the council has remained steadfast in its commitment to education, adding that his administration has also continued to prioritise education through bursaries, scholarships, school infrastructure upgrades, and digital learning initiatives.
“Today, we are not just giving out cheques and envelopes; we are drafting blueprints of hope, faith and belief in a brighter tomorrow. These are blueprints that will shape the minds of our young stars and design a future of greatness for our nation.
“Today, I am proud and humble because the administration, which I have had the honour to lead, has remained unwavering in its commitment to education.
“I am humbled because this moment reminds me once again that leadership is not about the length of time in office but the depth of impact we leave behind,” he said.
Hon Benson Ayodele advised Esther to continue to be a good ambassador of Imota LCDA, and continue to dream big.
“You have shown greatness, discipline, and a thirst for knowledge that has earned you a place in our hearts. As our shining star, your achievement is not just a personal victory, it is a victory for every child who dares to dream of becoming better.
“You have proven that greatness is not a privilege of the few but a reward for those who dare to rise, who work hard, and never give up,” he said.
Appreciating the chairman, Miss Esther Etiyemonu remarked, “I appreciate you for your support on education and for keeping to your promises on youth empowerment in Imota LCDA.”
Also speaking, the Principal of Lagos State Senior Model College, Igbokuta, Mrs. O. Ajayi, expressed gratitude to the chairman for prioritising education through his exemplary leadership.
Dignitaries present at the event include; First Lady of Imota LCDA, Mrs Oluwatosin Benson Ayodele, the Leader of the House, Hon Oluwole Adesina; the Chief of Staff, Hon Kamilu Ogunnowo; the Council Manager, Mr Ayeni Olumuyiwa; NULGE Chairman, Comrade Olatayo Hassan; the Human Resources Officer, Mr Olatunji Shafi Abiodun; HOD Agriculture and Social Service Department, Mr. Bakare Sikiru Olukayode; HOD of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Department, Mrs. Hussaini Aderonke; HOD of Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Agbolade Olusola, the Council Management Staff, among others who added colour and splendour to the event.
