Nigerian Students Top in English at 2024 Cambridge exams, with 12 ranked best globally as the British Council honours 99 learners for excellence

The Nigerian Students Top in English recognition has placed the country in the global spotlight, as twelve learners were ranked the world’s best in English at the 2024 Cambridge O Level and IGCSE examinations.

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The announcement came at the British Council Recognition and Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards held in Lagos, where 99 students from 44 schools across Nigeria were celebrated.

In the June series, Ohimal Okoye was named best in English as a Second Language (Count-in-Language).

For the November series, eleven others including Alvin Ebiuwhe, Amanda Enechukwu, Emmanuella Oze, Grace Sanya, Kamsiyochukwu Onochie, Kenechukwu Morayo Uba, Mercy Abilogun-Wole, Moboluwaduro Asalu, Ololade Olayinka, Tanamera Bassey and Ifunnaya Onaga earned global best titles in English as a Second Language (Speaking Endorsement).

Beyond English, Nigerian learners also excelled in other subjects. Babafemi Akinyera emerged best in English Language for Cambridge O’Level; Temidola Odufuye topped Sociology; Momoreoluwa Afolabi was best in Economics; and Kobamoye Kobe Odum earned global recognition in Agriculture.

Commending the achievement, Deep Adhikari, Regional Exams Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at the British Council, praised Nigerian families for their deep commitment to education, describing the results as a reflection of strong academic culture and investment in young learners.

He said, “Nothing is more important for the Nigerian parent over education, and these awards are a testament to that. Nigeria is in our top five operations worldwide, producing some of the best students globally.”

Also addressing the students, Simon Field, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, highlighted education as a powerful tool for national development and warned against misinformation from unverified online sources.

Juan Visser, Regional Director of Cambridge International Education, noted that future exams will increasingly adopt digital formats while maintaining paper-based options, especially in regions with limited access to technology.

The event not only recognised excellence but also reaffirmed the role of critical thinking, innovation, and balanced learning methods in shaping Nigeria’s next generation of leaders.

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The Nigerian Students Top in English story stands as a proud moment for the nation, a proof that with dedication and support, young Nigerians can shine brightly on the global stage.