Top 5 School Competitions in Lagos Every Student Should Know About

Top 5 School Competitions in Lagos Every Student Should Know About

Lagos State is known for its vibrant educational scene, which includes a wide variety of school competitions designed to challenge students and promote excellence. From academic contests to creative and tech competitions, these events help students develop new skills, enhance teamwork, and sometimes even win scholarships. Here are the top five school competitions in Lagos that every student should know about.


1. Maltina School Games

The Maltina School Games is an inter-school athletics competition designed to encourage sportsmanship and physical fitness among Nigerian students. The games feature various track and field events like sprints, long jump, high jump, and relay races. This annual competition, open to students in Lagos and other states, is an opportunity for young athletes to showcase their skills on a national stage.

  • Benefits: Fosters a healthy competitive spirit, builds teamwork, and offers prizes for outstanding performances.
  • Eligibility: Open to secondary school students across Lagos State.
  • How to Participate: Schools register their students through their respective sports directors or education boards.

2. Lagos State Spelling Bee

The Lagos State Spelling Bee is a prestigious competition that tests students’ spelling abilities and vocabulary knowledge. Established by the Lagos State government, it has become a highly anticipated event, with students from different schools across the state competing for top honors. Winners receive prizes, scholarships, and sometimes the honor of becoming a “One-Day Governor,” where they get to perform ceremonial duties alongside the actual Governor of Lagos State.

  • Benefits: Improves vocabulary, boosts confidence, and offers scholarships to top performers.
  • Eligibility: Open to primary and secondary school students in Lagos State.
  • How to Participate: Schools are invited to submit participants, with a selection process at the local and state levels.

3. Cowbellpedia Mathematics Competition

Organized by Cowbell Milk, the Cowbellpedia Mathematics Competition aims to promote mathematical proficiency among Nigerian students. It’s one of the most recognized math competitions in the country and attracts students from various states, including Lagos. Students are tested on mathematical concepts, problem-solving skills, and speed.

  • Benefits: Builds strong math skills, encourages problem-solving abilities, and offers scholarships to top winners.
  • Eligibility: Open to JSS 3 and SSS 2 students across Lagos and Nigeria.
  • How to Participate: Schools register their students online through the Cowbellpedia website, followed by regional tests and finals.

4. National Robotics Competition

As technology becomes increasingly important, the National Robotics Competition offers Lagos students the chance to dive into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) by designing, building, and programming robots. Organized by the Nigeria-based STEM initiative, it encourages students to develop creativity and technical skills through hands-on learning.

  • Benefits: Enhances critical thinking, promotes teamwork, and builds valuable programming and engineering skills.
  • Eligibility: Open to both primary and secondary school students.
  • How to Participate: Schools interested in participating can register their teams through the National Robotics Competition portal.

5. Lagos Schools Debate Competition

The Lagos Schools Debate Competition brings together some of the brightest young minds to engage in structured debates on various social, political, and economic issues. This competition is organized by the Lagos State government and aims to promote public speaking, critical thinking, and knowledge of current affairs. Winning teams receive prizes and trophies, and participants gain exposure to public speaking and argumentation.

  • Benefits: Builds confidence, improves research and public speaking skills, and enhances students’ knowledge of global and national issues.
  • Eligibility: Open to secondary school students in Lagos.
  • How to Participate: Schools register their teams through the Lagos State Ministry of Education, and students compete in various elimination rounds.

Benefits of Participating in School Competitions

Participating in school competitions offers a wide range of benefits for students:

  • Skill Development: Competitions encourage skill-building beyond the classroom, such as teamwork, creativity, and leadership.
  • Boosts Confidence: Facing challenges and interacting with peers from other schools helps students build self-confidence and resilience.
  • Scholarship Opportunities: Many competitions offer scholarships to outstanding participants, opening doors to further educational opportunities.
  • Networking and Exposure: Students meet peers from different backgrounds, exchange ideas, and learn to work with diverse teams.
  • Preparation for Future Challenges: Competitions teach students to handle pressure, meet deadlines, and think critically – skills that are valuable in both academic and professional settings.

These top school competitions in Lagos are essential for fostering a spirit of excellence and growth among students. Whether it’s a spelling bee, a robotics challenge, or an athletic competition, each event helps students develop unique skills that will benefit them in the future. With the support of schools and parents, these competitions can be a transformative experience, encouraging students to reach new heights and showcase their potential on a broader stage