Honeyland Schools triumph at NISMCAA 2025 with a bold reggae twist, claiming ₦200k and righting a scoring error with heart and flair

[dropcap]I[/dropcap]n a stunning reversal of fortunes and a celebration of musical courage, Honeyland Schools from Abesan, Lagos State, emerged as the rightful winner of the 9th National Interschool Music Competition and Academic Award (NISMCAA) with a reggae performance that redefined the rhythm of student excellence.

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Originally held on 13 February 2025 at the University of Lagos, the competition centred around the theme “Music for Social Change”was clouded by a scoring error that mistakenly declared another school as winner.

But on 4 April, following a meticulous post-event review, Honeyland was officially crowned champion, securing the ₦200,000 cash prize, a prestigious trophy, and medals for every member of their vibrant school orchestra.

Addressing the correction with candour, Olubunmi Adebowale, Executive Director of NISMCAA, said:
“We are here not just to celebrate excellence, but to uphold fairness and integrity. Errors happen, but how we fix them shows our true character. Honeyland College delivered a performance worth every cheer and accolade.”

The panel that reviewed the scoring discrepancy, led by David Abduljabba, endorsed the outcome, stating:
“This is proof that excellence can’t be buried. Merit always rises.”

What makes Honeyland’s victory even more remarkable is the bold artistic decision behind it. The school had initially prepared an afrobeats performance but pivoted last-minute to reggae.

“Something told me to go reggae instead,” said Adeniyi Bamidele, the school’s music director. “It was a riskbut the school believed in the vision, and it paid off.”

The gamble not only paid off it electrified the audience and judges alike.

Mr Akinleye Oludayo, the school’s administrator, expressed immense pride:
“This isn’t just a win it’s a validation of our values: creativity, resilience, and integrity.”

This isn’t Honeyland’s first taste of glory, but this win resonates deeper. It highlights the importance of trusting one’s instincts, embracing change, and standing firm in the face of uncertainty.

As the students celebrated with glittering medals and gleaming smiles, it became clear: Honeyland didn’t just win a trophy—they set a new standard for what bold, purposeful music can do.