Daniel Otera
Nigerians are buzzing with outrage after 17-year-old Nafisah Abdullahi from Yobe State who clinched the top spot in the world at the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals in London was handed just a token of N200,000 as a prize by the Federal Government during a ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
This sharp-witted teen, representing Nigeria through Nigerian Tulip International College (NTIC), outsmarted more than 20,000 participants from 69 countries, including those from native English-speaking countries like the UK and USA. The competition tested English proficiency, critical thinking, and communication skills.
The social media space has been agog with reactions from netizens. “200k? That’s all? Haba!” one user fumed on X, formerly Twitter, while another quipped, “Super Falcons get N150 million each for football, but this girl who beat the world in brains gets pocket change?”
The backlash isn’t just about the cash; it’s a wake-up call for Nigeria’s education system, which faces a significant crisis. With a staggering 18.3 million children, the highest number globally unable to access formal education, the nation’s education infrastructure is in dire need of reform. According to UNICEF’s 2024 data, Nigeria leads the world in the number of out-of-school children, a situation that exposes deep issues in the country’s educational policies.
For millions of Nigerian children, the reality of being out of school stems from economic hardship, insecurity, and the lack of proper learning facilities. Many families prioritize survival over education, forcing children to enter the labor market at an early age instead of attending school. This situation is further exacerbated by the limited government investment in educational resources and infrastructure.
UNICEF’s findings paint a grim picture for a generation growing up without the proper tools to succeed academically. As the country grapples with these challenges, the long-term implications for Nigeria’s national economy and social stability are far-reaching. The lack of education isn’t just a personal tragedy for the affected children but also a societal issue, as it impacts the country’s future workforce and overall development.
In light of these statistics, it is crucial for stakeholders at all levels – from government to local communities – to prioritize education and find innovative solutions to reduce the number of out-of-school children. Policies must focus on improving access to education, addressing the barriers faced by marginalized groups, and ensuring that children are provided with the necessary resources to succeed academically.
From the moment news of Nafisah’s win broke in early August, reactions poured in like rain in Lagos. Positive vibes flooded timelines first. A post from @abdullahayofel racked up over 5,000 likes, sharing a video of the teen and cheering, “Meet a 17-year-old girl from Yobe State, Nafisa Abdullah Aminu, who just made Nigeria proud by winning the TeenEagle Global English Championship in London, beating over 20,000 participants from 69 countries.” Folks from the North, where Yobe is, were especially chuffed, seeing it as a win for the region. @jeje_textile posted photos with the caption, “A Yobean is putting Nigeria on the map! Nafisa Abdullah Aminu, just 17 years old, has beaten 69 countries, including native English speakers, to win the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals in London. Out of over 20,000 contestants, she emerged as the world’s best in English.” It got 234 likes and replies like “She’s our star!” and “Inspiration for all Northern kids.” Even big names jumped in: Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar tweeted, “Congratulations, Nafisah Abdullahi Aminu, on your stellar achievement at the TeenEagle Global Finals. You make Nigeria proud and show the world the limitless potential of our young people,” earning 3,296 likes.
Labour Party’s Peter Obi added, “I warmly congratulate Miss Nafisa Abdullah Aminu… Her emergence as the top English language performer globally… is not only a personal triumph but a moment of great national pride.” His post hit 23,000 likes, with many calling for scholarships.
But not everyone was celebrating without a side eye. Influencer Reno Omokri, held off posting initially, explaining in a reply thread that he was verifying the story to avoid fake news pitfalls. “I called TeenEagle on their official line… and they said they were not aware of it but would investigate,” he shared, getting 361 likes but sparking debates in replies about authenticity. Some users dismissed it as hype, but once confirmed, the focus shifted to rewards or the lack thereof.
Fast forward to August 28, when Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa and Minister of State Professor Suiwaba Ahmad hosted a ceremony in Abuja to honor Nafisah and other standout students. They called her “a beacon of excellence and inspiration to Nigerian youths.” Alausa announced the N200,000 gift, saying, “You are the future of Nigeria, and you have made us proud. For the first time in the history of our nation, we have one of the highest budgetary allocations to education.”
He added, “Each time we approach the President for support in the sector, his response has been a resounding ‘yes’ because he believes in you, the children of Nigeria. Your success gives us the confidence to ask for more, and we will continue to do so on your behalf.” Ahmad chimed in, “Nigerian youths can compete and excel globally. Nafisa has demonstrated that Nigeria is blessed and can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world. You are a shining example.”
She urged the teen, “See the achievement as the beginning of a greater journey,” while praising her parents and teachers.
Nafisah, gracious as ever, responded, “I appreciate Tinubu and the ministers for creating an environment for me to excel while thanking my school, NTIC and my parents for the support.” Yobe’s Commissioner for Basic Education, Prof. Abba Idris, thanked the minister too, noting his state’s ongoing celebrations in education.
Sounds good on paper, right? But Nigerians weren’t buying it. The N200,000, worth less than $150 at current rates, felt like a slap. @Maxajee posted, “It’s disappointing to see Nafisah Abdullahi… receiving only N200,000 (less than $150). We’re 100% in support of the government reforms… However, we really hope there’s more to the prize than just the money. A scholarship or other incentives for her would be welcomed.” It got 52 likes and 46 reposts. @jrnaib2 went harder: “Bola Tinubu’s administration gifted the Super Falcons N150 million, yet offered a mere N200,000 to Nafisah Abdullahi… This disparity underscores a troubling mindset: lavish rewards for sports, but minimal support for academic achievement.” With 58 likes and 28 reposts, replies piled on: “Education is key, but they treat it like a joke.” @AnthonySponsor mocked, “APC government awarded Nafisah Abdullahi… a sum of N200,000. Like 200k Hahahaha. It’s very shameful.” Even @PO_GrassRootM echoed, “FG awarded Nafisah Abdullahi… a sum of N200,000. Wait, Nigerians, you mean 200k?” racking up 30 likes.
The contrast with sports rewards stung deepest. Back in July 2025, after the Super Falcons won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) their 10th title, President Tinubu hosted them at the Villa, giving each of the 24 players the naira equivalent of $100,000 (about N150 million at the time), a three-bedroom flat in the Renewed Hope Estate, and the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) honour. The 11 technical crew got $50,000 each. Governors chipped in N10 million per player, and MTN added N150 million total.
Tinubu said, “You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable.” First Lady Oluremi Tinubu added, “You played with passion, confidence and an unshakeable belief in yourselves… You never wavered and reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse.” Captain Rasheedat Ajibade replied, “This victory is not just a trophy. It is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria.”
That splashy event, with cheers and parades, contrasted sharply with Nafisah’s quiet Abuja do. @Mallam_jabeer fumed, “Bola Tinubu Government has awarded Nafisah Abdullahi… a sum of N200k only. I am not surprised because it’s only an educated person that will know the value of education. It’s expected from a certificate forger.” @shuraim laughed, “Federal Government gifted… N200,000.” And @Sarkinijebu quipped, “Correction: The Federal Government awarded Nafisah Abdullahi… a sum of $133.” Sarcasm flew, with users like @go_globalworld saying, “How shameful is The Federal Government for awarding Nafisah Abdullahi… just N200,000.. This money can’t even board a one-way flight to Nigeria.”
The allocation for education in Nigeria’s 2025 budget has sparked debates about the government’s commitment to addressing the country’s educational challenges. Despite President Tinubu’s vow of record investment, only N3.52 trillion has been earmarked for education, a mere 7.3% of the total N49.74 trillion national budget. This falls significantly below the UNESCO-recommended benchmark of 15-20% for developing countries. The stark contrast between government promises and budgetary realities raises concerns about the future of education in Nigeria.
One of the most pressing issues is the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria. According to UNICEF, the number of children not attending school has soared to 18.3 million in 2024, up from 10.5 million in 2013. Northern Nigeria, particularly states like Yobe, is facing the highest rates, with 61% of children not attending school. This alarming trend highlights the deep-rooted challenges faced by the education sector, which include poverty, insecurity, and underfunding.
Key Contributing Factors
Several factors exacerbate the education crisis in Nigeria:
- Poverty: Over 40% of Nigerians live on less than $1.90 per day, severely limiting access to quality education, especially for children from low-income families.
- Insecurity: The persistent security challenges across Nigeria are hindering educational progress. In the 2022-2023 period, 19 school attacks in states like Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe led to the closure of 113 schools, further disrupting the education of thousands of children.
- Underfunding: With only 63% of children regularly attending primary school, underfunding remains a significant barrier. The government’s budget allocation to education, though substantial in absolute terms, is insufficient to address these systemic challenges.
Furthermore, the 2023 Minimum Standards for Safe Schools assessment revealed that states meet only 9 out of 21 safety criteria on average. This reflects the inadequate infrastructure and lack of proper safety measures in many schools, which further jeopardizes the well-being of students and discourages enrollment.
Experts argue that this undervalues academic excellence. @AbdullahiJalin1 asked Grok if Nafisah deserved Super Falcons-level perks, highlighting Ruqayya’s debate win too. Replies screamed yes. The Atiku Foundation’s scholarships show private efforts filling gaps, but as @remedy_blog posted, “The Nigerian government boldly gifts… a shocking sum of N200k.” @Itz_Talkopedia joked, “The Naija Government… don dash one Nafisah Abdullahi ₦200,000 – the money plenty baa?”
Nigerians want change. Posts call for scholarships, presidential meetings, and budget hikes. As @Eagle1025FM shared the news neutrally, replies demanded more. Nafisah’s journey from Yobe roots to global glory proves her potential, but the reactions underscore a system that cheers sports crowds yet starves scholars. With 18.3 million kids sidelined and education receiving just 7.3% of the budget, this N200,000 controversy isn’t just about one girl; it’s a cry for Nigeria to invest in education, not just sports.
As Alausa said, “Your success gives us the confidence to ask for more.” It’s time to deliver.