Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu created a memorable moment at the Lagos House in Marina when he offered his official seat to Miss Etiyemonu Esther, the One Day Governor and overall winner of the 21st Lagos Spelling Bee Competition.

The symbolic gesture, which took place during a special reception at Lagos House, Marina, has since drawn attention online, with many describing it as inspiring and encouraging for young Nigerians.

Esther, a student of Lagos State Senior Model College, Igbokuta, emerged as the overall winner of the 21st Lagos Spelling Bee Competition, earning the rare privilege of serving as One Day Governor. The initiative is part of the state’s effort to promote academic excellence and leadership among students.

During the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu invited Esther to sit in his official seat, a powerful symbol of leadership and possibility. The gesture was met with applause from dignitaries, education officials, and other invited guests present at the ceremony.

The Lagos Spelling Bee Competition has become one of the state’s flagship academic contests, designed to improve literacy, boost confidence, and encourage healthy intellectual competition among secondary school students. Over the years, it has produced outstanding young talents who have gone on to excel in various fields.

By offering his seat to Esther, Governor Sanwo-Olu reinforced the message that young people have a place in leadership and governance. The One Day Governor initiative allows exceptional students to experience governance firsthand, interact with state officials, and understand how government works.

Education stakeholders have consistently praised the Lagos State government for sustaining programs that reward academic performance. Many observers noted that public recognition of academic achievement can motivate other students across the state to strive for excellence.

For Esther, the moment marked a significant milestone in her academic journey. Representing Lagos State Senior Model College, Igbokuta, she stood as a symbol of dedication, discipline, and hard work. Her victory at the 21st Lagos Spelling Bee Competition reflects months of preparation and resilience.

The event also highlighted the importance of investing in education as a foundation for long term development. By celebrating students in such a visible way, the state continues to send a clear message about the value it places on knowledge and youth empowerment.

Photos from the ceremony have since circulated online, with many Nigerians congratulating the young scholar and applauding the governor’s gesture. The atmosphere at Lagos House, Marina, was described as warm and celebratory, with officials commending Esther’s brilliance and composure.

As conversations around youth leadership and educational reform continue across the country, moments like this serve as reminders that academic excellence remains a pathway to opportunity.

Esther’s achievement at the 21st Lagos Spelling Bee Competition will likely inspire many students across Lagos and beyond to pursue excellence in their studies.