Federal Ministry Of Education Debunks Denying 15-Year-Old Agbo Adoga Qualified To Represent Nigeria In International Maths Olympiad In China, Funding.
The Federal Ministry of Education in a press release on Sunday, Titled “No record of sponsorship for maths Olympiad student,” debunked viral social media news of denying funding to 15-year-old Agbo Adoga who was reportedly qualified to represent Nigeria in international Maths Olympiad in china.
The spokesperson Boriowo Folashade affirmed that there’s no record of such request from any quarters, while advising that the matter should be formally presented to the ministry for necessary action.
Part of the statement read: “the public is advised to disregard unverified reports and ensure that all education related matters are confirmed through the Ministry’s official communication channels.
“The Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to encouraging and supporting outstanding student through the due process and transparent procedures.”
Fifteen-year-old Agbo Adoga made history with a perfect 1600 SAT score, the first for any Nigerian student, and qualified for the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) by winning the 2025 Nigerian Mathematics Olympiad.
Educare CEO Alex Onyia in a statement on Sunday disclosed: “Graceland International School, PortHarcourt just informed me that Agbo Adoga qualified to represent Nigeria in international Maths Olympiad in China.
“Nigerian Ministry of Education said they don’t have money to sponsor anybody. So he will not attend.” He surmised
Adoga, who has earned 84 awards in math and STEM competitions including international golds, highlights systemic challenges in supporting young talent amid budget constraints.
Nigeria hasn’t been represented in International Mathematics Olympiad since 2021.
Onyia furthered revealed: “If Nigerian does not attend the International Mathematics Olympiad next year, they will be downgraded. That’s the policy from International Mathematical Olympiad.
“It states that if a country does not participate in 5 years, they will be downgraded. It means Nigeria will no longer be at the category to earn medals. Nigeria then can only be an observer nation.” He surmised
Funding shortfalls at the Federal Ministry of Education prevented him and the national team from attending the July 2025 event in Australia, continuing Nigeria’s absence since 2021.
A lot of rage has been directed towards the Ministry of education for denying the 15-year-old genius his right to shine on an international stage that will as well bring pride to the country.
