Corona Schools, Dowen College students emerge winners in 4th national blue economy quiz

Olasubomi Abodunrin from Corona School, Kosisochukwu Nwobodo and Olukayode Ogunmoroti both from Dowen College came first, second and third respectively in the 4th nationwide virtual Marine and Blue Economy Quiz.

Abodunrin, Nwobodo and Ogunmoroti had 95 per cent, 93 per cent and 92 per cent, respectively, in the just concluded quiz held virtually on Friday.

The 4th nationwide virtual Marine and Blue Economy Quiz was organised by the Ocean Ambassadors Foundation (OAF) in celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child.

Announcing the first place winner, Mr Emmanuel Jime, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), noted that the 95 per cent score by all account means distinction.

He acknowledged and appreciated the OAF president for the initiative.

According to him, it focused on young girls who are critical mass of the world and when tutored would take the economy to greater heights.

He pointed out that this initiative motivated the council in assisting the foundation because they believe with the foundation objective of letting young ones to participate in the maritime space.

According to Jime, the industry is quite strategic for the economy of the nation, therefore the need to have full participation of people.

“Maritime space which is the blue economy will provide opportunities for employment for the younger ones. I congratulate everyone that participated in the quiz competition,” he said.

Earlier, Dr Ajoke Yusuf, Tutor- General and Permanent Secretary, Education District VI, congratulated all the participants for reaching the final stage of the competition.

She commended their dedication to education and urged them to believe in their abilities and strive for even greater achievements.

“You attained 85 per cent and above and so, I celebrate you. You all did well. There is a lot of opportunities in the maritime sector as said by the convener of this competition and so tap into it,” she said.

Mr Mustapha Fawaz, a beneficiary from the 2020 edition of the quiz and an undergraduate at a Nigerian university, encouraged the participants, emphasising that reaching this stage already makes them winners regardless of the final outcome.

“You all have done your best to get to this stage, keep on pushing and best of luck to everyone,” he said.

Miss Benita Saka, the 2018 winner who had the opportunity to intern at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), expressed her gratitude to the foundation for the eye-opening experience the competition provided.

Also, Violet Williams, President of OAF, extended her appreciation to the classroom teachers who played a vital role in nurturing and guiding the participants.

According to her, their support and dedication contributed to the success of the quiz competition

“1, 780 participants came on board, reduced to 278 and then to 55. Now, three winners have emerged, it was not an easy task and the kudos goes to the dream actualisers.

“The participants had 80 pre cent girls and 20 per cent boys. This is to encourage the girls to come up and have positions in the sector dominated by the male,” she said.