Catalyst Clash Crowns Winners and Targets 125 Schools for 2027 Edition
Catalyst Clash, a STEM initiative focused on chemistry education and problem-solving, has concluded its inaugural competition, bringing secondary school students together for a test of scientific reasoning and practical knowledge.
The grand finale, held at Simple Field College in Lagos, followed a written examination phase. Finalists tackled questions based on real-world scenarios, including indoor air quality, water contamination after heavy rainfall and everyday chemical phenomena.
The event aimed to celebrate academic achievement and encourage students to apply chemistry concepts through critical thinking.
The 10 finalists were Okolie Chimamanda of Lasu International School; Anyigor Timothy of Lagos State Senior Model College, Ojo; Ezenduka Sylvia Ifechukwu of Iba Housing Estate Senior Secondary School; Tijani Oluwasetemipe of Simple Field College; Sowemimo Ziyadatul’ Khair of Lasued International School; Festus Ikeobi of Lasu International School; Chukwuka Favour of Lagos State Senior Model College; Samuel Abraham Oluwagbabemi of Ajangbadi Senior High School; Ekeh Cherish Jane of Lasued International School; and Olajuyin Muh Faisol of Al Bari College.
Anyigor Timothy, an SS2 student at Lagos State Senior Model College, Ojo, was named Best Overall Student. Festus Ikeobi, an SS3 student at Lasu International School, placed first runner-up, while Samuel Abraham Oluwagbabemi, an SS3 student at Ajangbadi Senior High School, placed second runner-up.
Participants received certificates, prizes and gift packages. The organisers also recognised the judges and volunteers.
The judging panel comprised Chief Judge Mr Anagun Olajide, Mr Taiwo Samuel and Miss Ayanyemi Adefunke. Guests included Mr Adekunle Alabi and Educator Abby, Lagos State Youth Ambassador for Badagry, who led an interactive session titled “You, AI and the Digital World”. Zainab Onike hosted the programme.
Catalyst Clash founder Jeremiah Alabi said: “After all the rejections and the voices saying it was not possible to host an event like this in Nigeria, Catalyst Clash First Edition 2026 was a success. This is a huge reason to be thankful.”
The event included audience participation, motivational addresses and a rapid-fire quiz while scores were collated. Remlac Store supported the event with bottles for attendees and participants who answered questions correctly. It also supplied the vacuum cups awarded to the top three winners.
Organisers said the turnout and response demonstrated an appetite for science competitions that develop students’ knowledge and character. Planning is under way for the second edition.
