Twelve Nigerian students have been ranked best in English globally among the 16 Nigerians recognised as ‘Top in the World’ at the 2024 Cambridge O Level and IGCSE examinations, achieving the highest standard in a single subject.
The announcement was made on Thursday at the British Council Recognition and Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards, hosted by the International Education group at Cambridge University Press & Assessment in partnership with the British Council in Lagos.
In the 2024 IGCSE June examination series, Ohimal Okoye emerged as best in English as a Second Language (Count-in-Language). For the IGCSE November series, Alvin Ebiuwhe, Amanda Enechukwu, Emmanuella Oze, Grace Sanya, Kamsiyochukwu Onochie, Kenechukwu Morayo Uba, Mercy Abilogun-Wole, Moboluwaduro Asalu, Ololade Olayinka, Tanamera Bassey and Ifunnaya Onaga were named global best in English as a Second Language (Speaking Endorsement).
Other Nigerians ranked ‘Top in the World’ include Babafemi Akinyera, best in English Language for Cambridge O’Level November 2024; Temidola Odufuye, best in Sociology for IGCSE June 2024; Momoreoluwa Afolabi, best in Economics for Cambridge O’Level June 2024; and Kobamoye Kobe Odum, best in Agriculture for IGCSE November 2024.
A total of 99 learners from 44 Cambridge International Schools across Nigeria received Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards at the ceremony, which also recognised winners in the ‘Top in Nigeria,’ ‘High Achievement,’ and ‘Best Across’ categories.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Regional Exams Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at the British Council, Deep Adhikari, commended Nigerian families for their commitment to education, praising the country’s strong academic culture. He described the achievements as a testament to the sacrifices of Nigerian parents and educators, stressing that Nigeria remains one of the British Council’s top five operations globally with many students emerging world-class.
Also speaking, the Deputy Head of Mission at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, Simon Field, said education is a powerful tool for human and national development, providing the foundation for creativity and critical thinking. He cautioned against the misconception that online learning could replace formal education, warning of the dangers of misinformation on the internet.
Regional Director of Cambridge International Education, Juan Visser, highlighted that the future of Cambridge examinations will continue to balance digital and paper-based formats, particularly in regions with limited technological infrastructure such as Sub-Saharan Africa. He added that while digital testing will expand, paper-based options will remain to ensure inclusivity.
The event underscored the importance of education, digital literacy, and critical thinking in shaping Nigeria’s future leaders, as Nigerian students continue to make their mark on the global academic stage.
