A 16-year-old student of Chrisland Schools, Naomi Olayinka, has emerged as the top in the World in English as a Second Language at the 2024 Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education examinations.
Olayinka’s recognition by the Cambridge Assessment International Education follows her outstanding performance in the June 2024 IGCSE examinations.
Speaking in an interview with The PUNCH on Monday, the visibly elated teenager described the news as surreal, saying her success was a product of faith, discipline, and the support of her teachers and parents.
“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,” she said.
Naomi follows in the footsteps of Mmesomachukwu Okonkwo, a 2023 Chrisland High School, VGC alumna, who achieved the same Top in the World recognition in English.
“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,” Naomi said
She added that her love for English stemmed from its power to connect people and convey ideas.
“I have always loved how English allows people to express their thoughts and emotions so beautifully. I believe it is a way of thinking and connecting with people,” she said.
While preparing for the examination, Naomi said she maintained a consistent study routine that combined structured practice with leisure reading.
“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,” she explained.
The journey, however, was not without challenges.
“There were times I felt overwhelmed balancing all my subjects and responsibilities. Sometimes I doubted myself, too. But I learned 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,” she said.
As the Assembly Prefect, she said she learned valuable lessons in leadership and time management that supported her academic excellence.
Reacting to the development, the Director of Schools, Chrisland Schools Limited, Mrs Ayoola Akinyeye, said Naomi’s success reflected the school’s long-standing commitment to nurturing globally competitive learners.
“At Chrisland, excellence is not an exception—it’s our default. Every year, we present hundreds of students for national and international examinations, and a remarkable number consistently achieve distinctions and awards that place them among the best in the world,” she said.
“While ‘Top in the World’ has room for only one, our record of multiple outstanding results each year shows that sustained excellence across large numbers is our true distinction.”
Also speaking, the Executive Head of Schools (Communications) and Regional Head of Abuja and VGC Schools, Dr. Olajide Onigbogi, said the school’s record of global recognition is the result of an intentional culture that integrates discipline, professionalism, and love for learning.
“Excellence at Chrisland isn’t accidental but intentional. It’s the product of discipline, professionalism, and love for learning, woven into the very fabric of our system,” he said.
