First Bank of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to contributing to education and youth development in the country while advocating a culture of saving among children and youths.

According to the head of Youth and Women Banking at First Bank, Aderonke Adeyinka, cultivating a savings culture from childhood helps build a future of financial discipline.

Speaking at the grand finale of the inaugural Spelling Bee in Nigeria (SpIN), Adeyinka emphasised the importance of building children’s confidence as part of securing the country’s future

“This is one of the reasons why the bank was among the sponsors of the Spelling Bee, which rewarded the winners with a trip to the United States to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee competition,” she said.

“We are one of the sponsors of this event because we are invested in the overall growth of children. Education is one of the best gifts you can give to them, and competitions like the Spelling Bee help build their confidence. You can see their confidence levels rise.

“That’s one thing First Bank is committed to—building the youths of tomorrow because they are the future of Nigeria. We sponsor competitions like this to ensure that children realize that the sky is just the starting point for what they can achieve,” she added.

On her part, Acting Consul General of the United States, JoEllen Gorg, commended the inaugural Spelling Bee in Nigeria finals, saying, “This year, we also commemorate the 100th anniversary of the United States’ first National Spelling Bee. Since 1925, the Spelling Bee has showcased American excellence while promoting literacy and a love of the English language.

“We are excited that this year also marks Nigeria’s first participation in the competition, alongside students from all 50 U.S. states and international students from Ghana, Jamaica, Japan, and more.”

At the end of the competition, Amazing Grace, a student of Green Path School, emerged as the winner out of 64 participants. She will represent Nigeria at the National Scripps Spelling Bee finale in the U.S.

Convener of SpIN, Eugenua Tachie-Menson, noted that the Spelling Bee competition has helped sharpen children’s ability to analyze word structures, recall roots and origins, and apply linguistic knowledge across various academic disciplines.

 “These skills will serve them not just in competition but throughout their lives, enhancing critical thinking, comprehension, and communication in profound ways,” Tachie-Menson added.