Maryam Yusuf, a 14-year-old student of Ar-Raheem International College, Ilorin, has emerged as one of Nigeria’s brightest young academic talents following her outstanding performance at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in Shanghai, China.
As a key member of Team Nigeria, which clinched the Gold Award in the Middle School category, Maryam’s achievement has drawn widespread recognition, positioning her as a rising star and an inspiration to young students across the country.
Here are things to know about Maryam Yusuf, who led Team Nigeria to win Gold at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in China:
Maryam Yusuf is 14 years old.
She is a student of Ar-Raheem International College, Ilorin.
She is part of the Nigerian team that won Gold at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in Shanghai, China (Middle School Category)
Yusuf played a key role in the final rounds of the competition
She previously competed at the African Spelling Bee Championship in Harare, Zimbabwe.
She participated in the senior category despite being in JSS 3.
Yusuf correctly spelt 17 out of 20 words in one minute during the speed round
She is described as a standout performer
She wears a niqab
Yusuf is seen as a role model, especially for young girls
She is recognised for discipline and academic excellence.
By Samuel Oamen
