Special Maths Contest 2024/2025 Edition-Highlights
The 2024/2025 edition of the Special Maths Contest has concluded successfully, leaving us inspired and proud of the mathematical talents emerging across the world.
This year, the contest drew over 1,700 registrants from various countries, including the USA, Rwanda, Ghana, Kenya, the United Arab Emirates, and beyond. More than 1,000 students sat for the first round virtually, demonstrating incredible enthusiasm and commitment.
From this pool, 78 students were shortlisted for the second round, representing both Nigerian and international participants. While 27 students were hosted physically in Abuja, the remaining students competed virtually due to logistical constraints preventing international travel.
The Second Round at Nile University of Nigeria
The second round of the contest was held at Nile University of Nigeria from 30th January to 4th February 2025. Students arrived in Abuja on 30th January from different parts of Nigeria, eager to dive into this challenging and enriching experience.
On 31st January, the event officially opened with a warm welcome message from our CEO, Mmesomachi Nwachukwu. This was followed by an inspiring keynote address from Dr. Umar, who spoke passionately about the crucial role of mathematics in our daily lives. He highlighted how mathematics underpins fields like artificial intelligence and data science and described mathematicians as problem solvers who bring solutions to real-life challenges.
After the opening ceremony, students attended a revision class led by one of our skilled instructors, gearing up for the contest ahead.
On 1st February, the contest commenced at 1:00 PM, with both in-person and virtual participants tackling four challenging Olympiad-style problems over a duration of four hours.
To help the students unwind and relax after the intensity of the contest, participants enjoyed an excursion to Monolisa Park in Abuja on Sunday, 2nd February. It was a refreshing and fun experience that allowed them to bond and create lasting memories.
Closing Ceremony and Awards
The closing and award ceremony was held on 3rd February 2025, attended by dignitaries and covered by Daily Trust Media. During the ceremony, Dr. Abdulwahab Animoku, co-founder of Special Maths Academy, commended all the students for their remarkable efforts and resilience.
Dr. Animoku also shared exciting news about resources to support students’ future Olympiad preparation, including:
- A video series for self-paced learning
- Our renowned summer camp, which has successfully nurtured past medalists
- An upcoming algebra textbook designed to build deeper mathematical understanding
He encouraged schools, teachers, and parents to embrace these resources to help nurture future problem solvers and Olympiad champions.
The ceremony continued with the presentation of medals and awards. Students were recognized for their performance and awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals based on their scores in the contest.
In addition to medals, cash prizes were awarded:
- The overall best student received a cash prize of $200
- The second overall best won $150
- The third overall best secured $100
For Nigerian participants, the prizes were:
- 1st place: ₦150,000 plus a brand-new laptop
- 2nd place: ₦100,000 plus a brand-new laptop
- 3rd place: ₦50,000 plus a brand-new laptop each (three students tied for third place)
Additionally, the best Nigerian girl was awarded ₦50,000, and her teacher also received ₦50,000 in recognition of their efforts. All teachers of award-winning students were celebrated with cash prizes of ₦50,000 each.
A highlight of the ceremony was the crowning of Damaris Oyerinde as the Queen of the Special Maths Contest by Dr. Abdulwahab Animoku. Damaris is set to represent Nigeria at the European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO) 2026, marking a significant step for her and for the Academy’s mission.
Departure and Reflections
On 4th February, students departed Abuja for their various destinations, carrying with them new friendships, invaluable knowledge, and the motivation to aim higher in their mathematical pursuits.
The 2024/2025 Special Maths Contest has reaffirmed our belief that Special Maths Academy is on the right track in raising world-class problem solvers. We are immensely proud of every participant and look forward to even greater achievements in the years ahead.
What to Expect from the 2026 Edition
The 2026 Special Maths Contest promises to be even bigger and more impact-driven, with exciting improvements:
Free Registration for All: No student should pay anyone to register
Greater International Participation: more countries joining
More Physical Slots: increased number of students invited to Abuja
Bigger Awards & Scholarships: stronger incentives for excellence
More Support for Girls in STEM: leading Nigeria to EGMO again
Strictly monitored exam conditions: improved fairness and accessibility
Enhanced Training Materials: including textbooks, video series
Teacher of the best Nigerian student special award.
The 2024/2025 Special Maths Contest has reaffirmed our belief that Special Maths Academy is on the right track in raising world-class problem solvers. We are immensely proud of every participant and look forward to even greater achievements in the years ahead.
The Journey Doesn’t End Here
The Special Maths Academy is committed to nurturing world-class problem solvers equipped to excel globally in mathematics, technology, and beyond.
Stay Connected for Updates:
- SMC 2026 registration opening soon!
- New training videos and resources
- Summer Camp 2026
Together, we are shaping the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.
See you in the next edition!
