Agbo’s remarkable achievement places him among the brightest mathematical talents globally at such a tender age. His victory not only brings pride to his school but also to Nigeria as a whole, demonstrating the country’s emerging excellence in mathematics education.

The competition, organized by BAUM TENPERS Institute in the United States in collaboration with academics from leading universities globally, aims to identify and nurture young mathematical prodigies from around the world by discovering them early and matching them to older and more accomplished mathematicians. Agbo’s peers in the gold medal category include Uwakmfon Unwana Jacob (16) from Graceland International School, Eugene Jung (17) from American International School, Chisom Stanley Chikwado (16) from Kadwell International School, and Aun Peter Ernen (15) from Chapel Secondary School.

Speaking at the award ceremony, the publicity director, Dr. Wallace Oyakhi commended the outstanding performances of all the medal winners, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and fostering mathematical talent, particularly from underrepresented regions like Africa. He urged parents to encourage their children, especially girls, to pursue mathematics as a career path. “Girls at the math contest level and women at the research level are heavily less represented in the mathematical sciences and this is a problem globally. We need to bring them to the math party and empower them to excel and then create an enabling, inclusive environment for them to stay and thrive, thus optimizing their retention.”

Dr. Daniel Felix, president of the organizing institute, encouraged all contestants to always persevere in their pursuit of excellence in mathematics, highlighting the significance of dedication and hard work in achieving success in the field. “Mathematics is important and a background in it prepares you for almost any field of endeavor. But in learning mathematics, you must persevere and work hard to properly master concepts and even develop new ones if possible. Having a talent in mathematics is no substitute for hard work. You must put in the effort, and I encourage you to do so”.

In recognition of their stellar performances, all medal winners have been awarded generous scholarships to support their further education. Agbo and four other gold medalists received scholarships valued at $3,500 each. 7 Silver medalists were granted scholarships worth $2,700 each, while 9 bronze medalists received scholarships valued at $2,400 each. These scholarships – provided by BAUM TENPERS Institute – are an investment into the youngsters’ further academic training and preparation for college education and to support their ongoing pursuit of excellence in mathematics and related disciplines.

Some of the Nigerian participants who won medals in the contest are also medalists in other major mathematics contests. Uwakmfon Unwana Jacob is a Pan-African Mathematical Olympiad (PAMO) gold medalist and represented Nigeria at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). Agbo Daniel Adoga is the current National Cowbellpedia Champion in the Junior Category, and Ofure Esther Asuelimhen, a Bronze Medalist in the mathematical olympiad and current student of Vetland Senior Grammar School (a public high school in Lagos), is a gold Medalist of the Pan African Mathematics Competition for Girls (PAMOG), state level.

The annual mathematics Olympiad serves as a platform for young talents to showcase their mathematical abilities on an international stage. With the next edition scheduled for late January 2025 in Maryland, United States, and online participation options available, the competition continues to inspire and nurture the mathematical talents of tomorrow.