Education Ministry Denies Snubbing 15-Year-Old Nigerian Math Whiz Chosen For China Olympiad
The Federal Ministry of Education has dismissed reports that it failed to sponsor a 15-year-old Nigerian student who allegedly qualified to represent the country at the International Mathematics Olympiad in China.
The clarification followed public outrage sparked by a post from Educare’s Chief Executive Officer, Alex Onyia, who accused the ministry of denying financial support to the student, identified as Agbo Adoga from Graceland International School, Port Harcourt. Onyia claimed the refusal prevented the teenager from attending the global mathematics competition.
In his post on X, Onyia wrote, “Graceland International School, Port Harcourt, just informed me that Agbo Adoga qualified to represent Nigeria in the International Maths Olympiad in China. Nigerian Ministry of Education said they don’t have money to sponsor anybody. So he will not attend. Nigeria lost again!”
However, in a press statement released on Sunday, the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Feo Folasade, denied receiving any official correspondence requesting sponsorship for the student.
“The Federal Ministry of Education wishes to state clearly that it is not aware of the report circulating online regarding a supposed sponsorship request for a 15-year-old student said to have qualified to represent Nigeria at the International Mathematics Olympiad in China,” the statement said.
It further explained that no document or communication from any recognised institution or body was found in the ministry’s records regarding the alleged sponsorship.
The ministry also urged members of the public to disregard unverified information and ensure that all education-related matters are confirmed through its official channels.
Reaffirming its dedication to promoting excellence, the ministry stated that it remains committed to encouraging and supporting outstanding students through proper and transparent procedures.
