Over 200 pupils from 26 public and private schools gathered at Makogi Primary School for the inaugural edition of the Ultimate Mind Challenge, a day-long event that blended fun with critical thinking and competition.
Organised by the REEL Foundation in collaboration with Dolly Children Foundation and proudly supported by the Britain Nigeria Educational Trust (BNET), as well as UAC—the producers of Gala roll snacks and Supreme ice cream—the event aimed to promote academic excellence, confidence, and a sense of social responsibility among primary school pupils at Makogi, Magboro in Ogun State.
The event featured three key competitions: Spelling Bee, Chess, and Scrabble. Pupils battled it out across multiple rounds, displaying knowledge, strategy, and grit. After rigorous competition, 15 pupils emerged as winners across the categories. In the Grade 4 Spelling Bee, Olatunde Esther of NESGEL School came first, then Solanke Mark and Ochuko Ese, both of King’s Heart School. Ohia Paula of All Precious Worth School won the Grade 5 category, with her schoolmate Ojo Olamide and Amidat Olukotun of Mark Favour Montessori School placing second and third, respectively. Olatunde Joseph of NESGEL School emerged as the chess champion, while the Scrabble duo of Victor Azubuzor and Kalejaye Fatimah from Marshal School clinched the top spot.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Ajoke Adeola of the REEL Foundation set the tone for the event with a stirring message: “Today, we are not just organizing a competition; we are planting seeds of courage, intellect, and community. These children are our future problem-solvers and leaders. This challenge is designed to show them that brilliance exists in every child, and all it takes is opportunity, encouragement, and love.”
The pupils were also engaged in a “Commitment Wall” activity, where they wrote down the societal issues they hope to solve when they grow up. Their moving and insightful responses highlighted their awareness of national challenges. “I will solve the problem of vandalism and insecurity,” wrote Precious from Mountain Top Nursery and Primary School. “I want to fix bad roads,” added Ibrahim from Dolly Stars School, while Praise from MarkFavour School wrote, “I want all children to have free education.” Others pledged to help widows and orphans, tackle food poisoning, and support the less privileged.
The event drew praise from key stakeholders and educators. Mr. Benjamin A. Sorunke from the Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology described the program as a “nurturing and transformative environment for young learners,” while Mrs. Ogunmodede of the Ministry of Education, Abeokuta, applauded the event’s impact on both pupils and adults, saying, “I left the programme having learned new words and spellings—it was enriching.” Alhaja Lamidi, Women Leader of Makogi and a key community stakeholder, highlighted the event’s inclusive spirit, noting how it brought together pupils from both public and private schools, fostered connections, and advanced educational equity.
Dignitaries at the event included representatives from the Ogun State Ministry of Education, local school leaders, and community advocates. Mrs. Adedolapo Osuntuyi, founder of Dolly Children Foundation, gave the vote of thanks, reaffirming the long-term vision behind the program. “This event is not just about who won today,” she said. “It’s about raising a generation of children who are ready to think critically, solve problems, and lead with compassion.”
The Ultimate Mind Challenge 2025, being the first of its kind in Makogi and its environs, signals a growing movement to integrate high-impact, child-centered educational initiatives into local communities. With its blend of learning, leadership, and community spirit, it marks a significant step forward in preparing Nigerian children for a thoughtful, innovative future.
