14-Year-Old Spelling Whiz Esther Etiyemonu Takes Over Alausa as Lagos One-Day Governor

The seat of power in Lagos saw a youthful change of guard on Monday as 14-year-old Esther Etiyemonu officially assumed her role as the state’s “One-Day Governor.” In a tradition that has become a hallmark of the state’s commitment to academic excellence, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stepped aside at the State House, Marina, to allow the Senior Secondary School student to take the reins.

Miss Etiyemonu, representing the Lagos State Senior Model College, Igbokuta, fought off fierce competition in the 21st edition of the Lagos State Spelling Bee to earn the prestigious title. Her arrival at the Executive Council Chamber was marked by full state honors, where she was joined by her “cabinet” One-Day Deputy Governor Dorcas Awoyemi and One-Day SSG Salami Jumai Olaide.

Presiding over a ceremonial council meeting, the “teen governor” proved she wasn’t just there for the photo-op. Dressed in her school uniform but carrying the poise of a seasoned leader, Etiyemonu commended the Sanwo-Olu administration for its “State of Harmony” in education and infrastructure. She particularly highlighted the recruitment of new teachers and the digital upgrade of technical colleges as major wins for her generation.

“The Spelling Bee is more than just about words; it’s about the discipline to lead,” Etiyemonu stated during her address. “I stand here today as a testament to the fact that with hard work, every public school student in Lagos can reach the pinnacle of leadership.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who played host to the young prodigy, reiterated his administration’s pledge to provide a “reserved place” in the state’s public service for past winners once they complete their university education. The day concluded with the One-Day Governor visiting various ministries, where she was received by top officials who treated her policy suggestions with the weight of a sitting executive.

As Etiyemonu returns to her classroom in Ikorodu, the message from Alausa is clear: the future of Lagos is not just coming it’s already sitting in the governor’s chair.