The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Edo office has rewarded Osamagbe Jegede, a student of Baptist High School, Benin, for her outstanding performance in the Advanced Girls in Engineering, Mathematics, and Science (AGEMS) competition.
Jegede emerged as the overall winner of the competition, which was held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to commemorate the 2025 International Women’s Day.¹
As the AGEMS Best Student of 2025, Jegede received an award for academic excellence, along with laptops, educational tablets, sets of boxes, and an undisclosed amount of money. The NDDC State Director, Mrs. Mercy Babawale, emphasized that the competition aimed to bridge the gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education for girls in the region.
Babawale highlighted the commission’s commitment to empowering future female leaders in science and engineering, focusing on sustainable development through innovation and technology. The competition involved three stages, with 10 selected schools from Edo State participating. Jegede secured first place, representing both her school and the state.
The achievement serves as a reminder that women can succeed in science and engineering with commitment and dedication. The NDDC office plans to distribute U-Lesson tablets to deserving students and install solar panels at Baptist High School to enhance the learning environment.
Prof. Joel Agbolagba, Chairman of the Governing Board of Baptist High School, commended the commission for empowering girls through initiatives like the AGEMS competition. He stressed that excellence is achievable through dedication and hard work, urging students to remain focused on their academic goals.
Kunle Oladokun, Chairman of the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA), encouraged students to embrace STEM subjects, emphasizing that science shapes the future.
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