Mamman Jamaladeen Tahir, a student of Air Force Secondary School, Shasha, Lagos has clinched the top prize in the Junior Secondary Category of the 2025 Annual National Mathematics Competition (ANMC).
The competition now in its 22nd year has been sponsored for about two decades by Nigerian Tulip International Colleges (NTIC) through its dedicated investment in education.
Tahir emerged victorious in his category this year among over 10,000 participants from more than 30 states.
“For us in the Air Force, excellence is not confined to the skies — it is a way of life, even in the classroom,” said Squadron Leader N. Gana, Commandant of the school.
“This win reaffirms our values and the Chief of the Air Staff’s commitment to mission-oriented training and holistic development.”
On his part, Tahir credited his success to late-night study sessions, prayer, and strong family support. “Sometimes I stayed up till 1 a.m. to study. I just kept pushing and trusted God,” he said.
At the prize and award ceremony for the 22nd ANMC organised in collaboration with the National Mathematical Centre (NMC), Mr. Fevzullah Bilgin, said: “Mathematics is not just a subject. It is the mother of all sciences. Any child who is exceptionally gifted in mathematics has the potential to excel in any field.”
Bilgin revealed that NTIC invests over ₦600 million annually in scholarships and the competition with nearly 90 students currently benefiting from the NTIC-ANMC full scholarship scheme.
“₦500 million goes into full scholarships for over 100 winners, and ₦100 million funds the nationwide competition. Over six years, the cost of supporting one cohort amounts to ₦3.5 billion — one of the most consistent private investments in Nigeria’s academic future.”
This year’s competition drew 52 finalists, who participated in the second round held simultaneously at NTIC campuses in Abuja and Kano. Winners at both primary and junior secondary levels received cash prizes, tech gadgets, and full scholarships. Schools and teachers were also recognized for excellence.
The National Mathematical Centre (NMC) hailed the partnership with NTIC as a model to emulate. “NTIC has set a new standard for mathematics competitions in Nigeria,” said Assoc. Prof. Solomun Gboyega Ojo, Head of the Olympiad Unit at NMC.
“This initiative has produced international champions and is building a pipeline of future STEM leaders.”
