NAMSSN holds summit, inter-school quiz competition to promote Mathematics
By Bashir Dawodu
The National Association of Mathematical Sciences Students of Nigeria (NAMSSN), University of Ilorin Chapter, has organised a summit and an inter-secondary school quiz competition aimed at promoting interest in Mathematics among students and changing negative perceptions about the subject.
The event, themed “The Future Mathematicians: Unlocking the Potential through Math,” was held last Wednesday,(May 13, 2026), at the Science Lecture Theatre (SLT), University of Ilorin.
Participating schools in the quiz competition included Minaret Comprehensive High School, Emmanuel Baptist College, As-Sunnah School, Bishop Smith Memorial College, Emafem Total Care Model College, Ivy Hill Academy, Ebenezer High School, Brilliant Stars, Union Baptist Grammar School, St. Anthony Secondary School, Chapel Intellect International School, Rehoboth College, and Government Secondary School, Ilorin.
At the end of the competition,Chapel Intellect International School emerged as the winner and received a cash prize of N100,000. Emmanuel Baptist College came second with a cash prize of N60,000, while Ebenezer College secured the third position with N40,000 cash prize. The six finalists also received tech scholarships sponsored by Biuda Company.
Delivering a lecture at the summit, a Professor of Applied Mathematics at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Suraju Olusegun Ajadi, described Mathematics as a discipline with vast opportunities beyond classroom teaching.
According to him, Mathematics plays a critical role in solving real-life problems and addressing global challenges.
“Mathematics is a great course to study because its opportunities go beyond teaching. It helps to solve real-life problems and global challenges,” he said.
Prof. Ajadi urged teachers and lecturers to improve their teaching methods in order to unlock the hidden potential in students.
He noted that discipline, resilience, and patience are key qualities every successful Mathematician must possess.
“We need young people who can use Mathematics to solve local problems and make meaningful impacts in society,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, software developer and Co-founder/Chief Executive Officer of Biuda, Mr Patrick Chukwu, encouraged students to combine mathematical knowledge with practical technology skills.
He stressed that numerous opportunities exist for students who are willing to learn and innovate.
“Take every opportunity to learn skills while in school and always try to tell your stories to the world,” he advised.
In his remarks, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Integrated Catering Company Limited, Dr Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi, commended the management of the University of Ilorin for producing quality graduates and empowering students for a better future.
He described the knowledge of STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) as essential for national development.
Dr Alabi also praised NAMSSN for encouraging secondary school students to appreciate the importance of Mathematics at an early stage. He promised to give 100,000 to the winner of the quiz competition.
Earlier, the President of NAMSSN, Mr Iyanda Demilade James, said the summit was organised to inspire, educate, and expose students to the endless opportunities in Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences.
He noted that many students still view Mathematics as merely a classroom subject instead of a tool capable of shaping careers, industries, leadership, and society.
According to him, “Mathematics remains one of the strongest foundations for growth and development. This summit is aimed at helping students build confidence and interest in the subject.”
