When Damilola Adeolu returned to her hometown of Ado-Ekiti, she was celebrated by residents, religious leaders, and educators. The 14-year-old girl had traveled to Shanghai, China, and returned as a global champion. The World Spelling Bee championship took place between July 10 and July 20, 2026, testing bright young minds. Nigeria sent a delegation for the first time. Damilola, a student at St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, was part of a four-person team. Her teammates included Abdurrahman Yusuf, Maryam Yusuf, and Chinedu Okediachi.
To reach Asia, the Nigerian team first competed in their national tournament and then the African Spelling Bee Championship in Harare, Zimbabwe. This continental contest had participants from over 30 African nations. Competitors faced difficult challenges, including single-word eliminations and speed rounds where they had to spell 20 words in 60 seconds.
Damilola excelled under pressure, winning first place in the Junior category in Zimbabwe. Abdurrahman finished third, and the Nigerian team was the runner-up in Africa. This success led to their participation in the world championships in Shanghai.
In Shanghai, the Nigerian delegation achieved great success, winning the top prize in the Middle School Group Category. Maryam and Abdurrahman also won individual medals. Damilola expressed her goal before the competition: "I am looking forward to the competition itself, meeting new spellers across the world, boosting my vocabulary and confidence on the global stage and also raising the trophy and bringing it back home." She achieved her goal and was happy to become a gold medalist.
Back in Nigeria, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who sponsored Damilola's trip, hosted a reception to honor her. He announced a scholarship to cover her education from secondary school through university. The state government will also provide stipends and funds for school supplies. The governor gave Damilola two million naira, and also gave money to her school and instructor. Governor Oyebanji promised further recognition, including meetings with national officials. He encouraged Damilola, saying, "You have made us extremely proud. You have conquered the world, but you need to conquer the future."