Dolly Children Foundation Partners with Reel Foundation to Empower 200 Ogun Pupils with Mind Challenge
Over 200 pupils from 26 public and private schools in Ogun State gathered at Makogi Primary School for the inaugural edition of the Ultimate Mind Challenge—a full-day event that combined fun, learning, and healthy competition. Organized by the REEL Foundation in partnership with Dolly Children Foundation and generously supported by the Britain Nigeria Educational Trust (BNET), UAC (producers of Gala roll snacks and Supreme ice cream), the event aimed to foster academic excellence, build confidence, and instill a sense of social responsibility among young learners in Makogi, Magboro.
The competition featured three main categories: Spelling Bee, Chess, and Scrabble. Pupils showcased their knowledge, strategic thinking, and perseverance through multiple rounds of intense play. After the rigorous contest, 15 pupils emerged victorious across the different categories. In the Grade 4 Spelling Bee, Olatunde Esther of NESGEL School took first place, followed by Solanke Mark and Ochuko Ese of King’s Heart School. The Grade 5 winner was Ohia Paula of All Precious Worth School, with Ojo Olamide and Amidat Olukotun of Mark Favour Montessori claiming second and third spots. In chess, Olatunde Joseph of NESGEL School was crowned champion, while Victor Azubuzor and Kalejaye Fatimah from Marshal School secured top positions in Scrabble.
Mrs. Ajoke Adeola of the REEL Foundation opened the event with an inspiring message: “Today, we’re not just holding a competition; we’re planting seeds of courage, intellect, and community. These children are future problem-solvers and leaders. This challenge aims to show them that brilliance resides in every child—what’s needed is opportunity, encouragement, and love.”
Participants also engaged in an activity called the “Commitment Wall,” where they penned down societal issues they aspire to address in the future. Their heartfelt responses revealed a commendable awareness of national challenges. Some of their pledges included tackling vandalism and insecurity, fixing bad roads, providing free education for all children, and supporting widows and orphans.
The event received commendations from key stakeholders and educators. Mr. Benjamin A. Sorunke of the Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology described the program as a “nurturing and transformative experience” for young learners. Mrs. Ogunmodede of the Ogun Ministry of Education, Abeokuta, shared her personal take, noting, “I left the programme having learned new words and spellings—it was truly enriching.” Community leader Alhaja Lamidi praised the inclusive nature of the event, emphasizing how it brought together pupils from both public and private schools, fostering connections and promoting educational equity.
Representatives from the Ogun State Ministry of Education, local school administrators, and community advocates attended the event. Mrs. Adedolapo Osuntuyi, founder of Dolly Children Foundation, delivered the closing remarks, reaffirming the long-term vision: “This is more than a one-day event. It’s about raising a generation of children who are critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and compassionate leaders.”
As the first of its kind in Makogi and its surrounding areas, the Ultimate Mind Challenge 2025 signifies a growing movement to integrate impactful, child-centered educational initiatives into local communities. With its focus on learning, leadership, and community spirit, it marks a vital step toward equipping Nigerian children for a thoughtful and innovative future.