Oke-Ona United School, Ilugun Elega, in Ogun State, and UBE Primary School Pasali, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have emerged the winners of the 2024, Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK) quiz competition.

The title was awarded to the students of these schools, who performed excellently during the quiz competition.

These exceptional students showcased their profound understanding of healthy nutrition, hydration, physical activity, and sustainability, which are the core pillars of the N4HK initiative.

The Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Nestlé Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka, said the N4HK initiative, which aims to help 50 million school children globally lead healthier lives by 2030, is Nestlé’s flagship programme dedicated to fostering healthy habits from a young age.

She said in Nigeria, this initiative includes a school-based nutrition education and environmental sustainability program that equips children with the knowledge to make better decisions regarding their nutrition and the environment, promoting a healthier future.

Uwadoka explained that the program benefits 35 schools, 20 schools in Ogun State, 10 schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and five schools in Lagos State.

She said the nutrition quiz, incorporated as a crucial component of the N4HK programme established in year in 2020, to enhance the recall and retention of the lessons learned by students during their school days.

Uwadoka noted that across Lagos, Ogun, and the FCT, 135 eager children competed for the title of 2024 N4HK quiz champion. “This competition not only reinforces the lessons taught but ensures that children internalize the information in a memorable way”.

She explained that at the Ogun State, finals held in Abeokuta, Oke-Ona United School, Ilugun Elega, secured the first position, followed by St. Peters Primary School, Siun, in second place, and China Nigeria Friendship School Igbesa, Ado-Odo, Ota in third place.

She said in the FCT, UBE Primary School Pasali emerged victorious, with Science Primary School (SPS), Abaji taking second place and Science Primary School Kwali securing third. All participating schools demonstrated remarkable understanding and dedication to the principles of healthy living.

“By focusing on children’s health and well-being, Nestlé for healthier kids aims to create a lasting positive impact on future generations. Equipping children with healthy habits early on can have profound effects on individuals, families, and communities. We are incredibly proud of the students’ performance and their enthusiasm for learning about healthy living. I congratulate all the participants and extend heartfelt gratitude to our partners: the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board, FCT Universal Basic Education Board, Federal Ministry of Education, Federal Ministry of Health, Ogun State Ministry of Education, and Ogun State Ministry of Health for their invaluable support and collaboration.”

“The schools of the prize winners will receive the following awards: a basketball court with player jerseys for first place, a desktop computer for second place, and a table tennis court with a complete kit for third place”.

Uwadoka noted that the Nestlé for Healthier Kids initiative aims to reach over 8,000 children annually in Nigeria, ensuring that today’s kids grow into healthy, informed adults. By catching them young, Nestlé is not just changing lives today but building a healthier, sustainable future for all.

Executive Chairman, Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Femi Majekodunmi, commended the efforts of all involved: “As we gather to celebrate the grand finale of the 2024 Nestlé for healthier kids quiz competition, I want to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of our learners, teachers, and other stakeholders”.

“Your tireless efforts have made a remarkable impact on the educational landscape of Ogun State. We recognise Nestlé’s unwavering commitment to education and their unrelenting support in creating a conducive learning environment for our learners.”

The Executive Chairman said that Ogun State government is ensuring that every child has access to quality education but government alone cannot drive development.

He urged all leaders to continue striving for excellence, to be curious, and to embrace the love of learning. “Your potential is limitless, and I have no doubt that you will make a positive impact in your communities and the world at large”.

He said: “At this juncture, we recognise Nestle unwavering commitment to Education and their unrelenting support in creating a conducive learning environment for our learners”.

Majekodunmi, said over the years    Nestle school programmes have provided learning facilities to various schools across Abeokuta North, Obafemi Owode, Sagamu and Ado Odo Ota Local govt, including provision of toilets, boreholes and overhead tanks for the school children.