Nigerian student Naomi Olayinka emerges top candidate in Cambridge English examination

NIGERIAN student Naomi Olayinka has emerged as the top candidate in World in English as a Second Language of the 2024 Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examinations whose results have just been announced.

Naomi, a 16-year-old student of Chrisland High School, Ikeja, was adjudged the best performer in the exams by Cambridge Assessment International Education, following her outstanding performance in the June 2024 IGCSE examinations. She described the news as surreal, saying her success was a product of faith, discipline and the support of her teachers and parents.

Ms Olayinka said: “Honestly, I was completely speechless at first. It didn’t even sink in right away. When I finally realised what it meant, I just felt so grateful to God, to my teachers, my parents, and everyone who supported me. It was such a surreal moment and all I could think about was how the hard work had really paid off.”

With this award, Naomi follows in the footsteps of Mmesomachukwu Okonkwo, a 2023 Chrisland High School, VGC student, who achieved the same Top in the World recognition in English. Expensive and patronised by the Nigerian elite, Chrisland Schools is a conglomerate of institutions that have provided education for nursery, primary and secondary school students across Nigeria, with its campuses spread across Lagos and Abuja.

Naomi added: “It feels amazing to be part of such a proud legacy. Chrisland has always inspired us to aim for excellence and knowing that others before me achieved this gave me confidence that it was possible too. I feel honoured to continue that tradition, and I hope my success encourages others as well."

She pointed out that her love for English stemmed from its power to connect people and convey ideas. While preparing for the examination, Naomi said she maintained a consistent study routine that combined structured practice with leisure reading.

“I have always loved how English allows people to express their thoughts and emotions so beautifully and I believe it is a way of thinking and connecting with people.  I set aside time every day to read, write essays, and review past questions. I also made sure to read novels, articles, and newspapers to expand my vocabulary and understanding.

“There were times I felt overwhelmed balancing all my subjects and responsibilities and sometimes I doubted myself, too but I learnt to take things one step at a time and reminded myself to trust the process. My parents and teachers encouraged me constantly and prayer gave me strength when I felt tired or unsure,” Naomi said.

As the Chrisland School assembly prefect, she said she learned valuable lessons in leadership and time management that supported her academic excellence. Ayoola Akinyeye, Chrisland's director of schools, said Naomi’s success reflected the school’s long-standing commitment to nurturing globally competitive learners.