Two outstanding students from Oginigba Comprehensive Secondary School, Oginigba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have brought pride to their school and state after winning top honours at the 65th National Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) Conference, held between 18 and 21 August 2025 at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The students, Taiwo Samuel and Emmanuel Uzo, presented their innovative project titled “Electrical Circuit Powered by Renewable Fusion for Automated Farm.” The project, which integrates renewable energy with agricultural automation, impressed the judges and earned them the honour of representing Nigeria at the Milset Expo-Science International (ESI) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from 23 September to 3 October 2025.
A Rare Honour for Rivers State
In a congratulatory message, the organisers commended the students and acknowledged the support of their school. The recognition marks a significant milestone for Rivers State, placing its young talents on a global stage.
The Principal of Oginigba Comprehensive Secondary School, Mr Joel Humphrey Thomas, expressed pride in the students’ resilience and creativity, describing the victory as a “testament to what Nigerian youths can achieve when given the right platform.”
Despite the achievement, the young innovators face a major hurdle: lack of funding for their trip to Abu Dhabi. Without parents or school-based sponsorship, they now rely on external support to seize this life-changing opportunity.
The school and well-wishers are appealing to the Rivers State Government, the Federal Government, corporate organisations, and philanthropists to sponsor the students’ participation.
“This is not just about two students; it is about Nigeria showcasing innovation at the global level,” a statement from the school read. “We cannot allow financial constraints to deny these children the chance to make the nation proud.”
About Milset Expo-Science International
The Milset Expo-Science International is a prestigious global science fair that brings together young innovators from across the world to showcase groundbreaking projects, explore scientific solutions, and foster international collaboration. Participation offers students exposure, mentorship, and opportunities that could shape their future careers in science and technology.
For Samuel and Uzo, representing Nigeria is both an honour and a responsibility — one that now depends on the timely intervention of well-meaning Nigerians.