Chrisland student Naomi Olayinka named top in ESL for 2024 IGCSE

Naomi Olayinka, a student at Chrisland High School, Ikeja, has been named the world’s top performer in English as a second language (ESL) for the 2024 International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) examination.

The Cambridge IGCSE is the most popular international qualification for 14 to 16-year-olds globally.

Olayinka’s triumph follows in the footsteps of Mmesomachukwu Okonkwo, an alumna from Chrisland High School VGC, who received the same global recognition in 2023.

Speaking to TheCable, Olayinka admitted she was “completely speechless at first” upon hearing the news, which she described as a “surreal moment.”

She attributed her success to a combination of discipline, faith, family support, and the school’s continuous encouragement.

The high achiever and assembly prefect for her set maintained a consistent study routine, setting aside time daily to read, write essays, and review past questions.

“I made sure to read widely (novels, articles, and newspapers) to expand my vocabulary and understanding,” she stated.

When faced with challenges like feeling overwhelmed while balancing subjects and leadership duties, she learned to trust the process.

“My parents and teachers encouraged me constantly, and prayer gave me strength when I felt tired or unsure.”

Olayinka also shared her future aspirations, noting her desire to become a lawyer to “impact society meaningfully” by using her voice to create a fairer community.

Her advice to other students is to “stay consistent, listen to your teachers, and never underestimate the power of hard work and prayer.”

The school’s management affirmed that Olayinka’s success is a result of intentional systems and a deep-seated culture of excellence.

Ayoola Akinyeye, director of schools, stated, “At Chrisland, excellence is not an exception; it’s our default.”

She noted that their success comes from “deliberate systems that make learning purposeful and engaging, a rigorous curriculum delivered by passionate teachers, and a school culture that values curiosity, confidence, and disciplined effort.”

She highlighted the “teacher-parenting scheme” under the pastoral care system as key to personal growth and high standards.

Olajide Onigbogi, executive head of schools, emphasised that Chrisland’s success is rooted in its five core values of discipline, integrity, professionalism, love, and excellence, which are lived daily.

He also pointed to the school’s mentorship model, where teachers, more than instructors, act as mentors and moral guides, nurturing a growth mindset that prepares students not just for exams but for life.