Delta State has once again asserted its academic excellence on the national stage, emerging top in the 2024 Awokoya National Chemistry Competition organized by the Chemical Society of Nigeria (CSN).
In a celebratory event held on Thursday July 10, 2025, in Asaba, the state’s outstanding students were honoured for their stellar performances, with special recognition given to the best female winner, Miss Samuel Ebubechukwu Favour of Pennial Academy, Boji Boji Owa.
The award, presented by the Delta State Chapter of the CSN on behalf of the national body, included a cash prize of ₦100,000—₦50,000 from the national society and an additional ₦50,000 donation by a distinguished professor.
Sir David Onokpe, a retired Permanent Secretary, represented the national body and commended the winners for their brilliance and commitment.
He emphasized that the competition is not just about winning but about raising awareness of the importance of chemistry in national development.
“It is my honour and privilege to recognize the winners of the 2024 National Chemistry Competition. This event is designed to raise national consciousness on the critical role chemistry plays in human advancement and societal progress,” Onokpe said.
Delta State’s dominance at the competition was clear. In addition to Miss Favour’s top position among female participants, the overall best student in the male category was Olatunji Abduraham of Delta Career College, Warri.
Master Orofordita Oritse of Gracevill College, Asaba, also placed 7th nationally.
The Awokoya Chemistry Competition, named after Professor Stephen Awokoya, is held annually across all 36 states and the FCT.
It aims to nurture scientific curiosity, promote academic excellence, and identify young talents in the field of chemistry.
Students face rigorous testing in chemistry-related questions and problem-solving scenarios.
In her remarks, Hon. Barr. Bridget Anyafulu, member representing Oshimili South in the Delta State House of Assembly, who equally presented the Cheques, lauded the students and commended the teachers, parents, and schools for their roles in preparing the winners.
She reaffirmed Delta State’s commitment to equal educational opportunities for both genders.
“In Delta State, everyone counts, male or female,” Anyafulu stated.
“We don’t just train boys. Our girls are also doing exceptionally well. I must commend our Commissioners for Women Affairs, Social and Community Development, and Secondary Education for their dedication.”
She also reminded parents to respect and support teachers, whom she described as divine instruments for nurturing future professionals.
The ceremony featured goodwill messages from top government officials and members of the Chemical Society of Nigeria.
The event climaxed with the official presentation of the cash awards and certificates to the deserving students.
Delta State, which boasts three active CSN chapters in Warri, Asaba, and Agbor, continues to lead the charge in promoting science education and producing top-tier academic talents.
With a back-to-back win in 2023 and 2024, stakeholders say expectations are high for another remarkable performance in 2025.
