Tag: Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN)

•BSN calls for more support

It was an awe-inspiring moment at the 4th edition of the Primary School Bible Competition organised by the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) as Muritala Desmond, a 9-year-old Muslim pupil of Salem Baptist International School, emerged overall winner.

The event, held recently at the Salvation Army, Onipanu, Lagos, brought together young pupils from across the state in a test of Biblical knowledge and moral teachings.

Desmond, who is in Basic 4, scored a perfect 100%, defeating his closest rivals — Phoebe Fashola and Success Olawoyin of Grand Royale School — who tied with 90%, while Anabel Onyekwere Ogechi Ogbogu from Angels on Mission School came third with 85%. The competition, now in its fourth edition, saw participation from 17 schools across Lagos, with 6 schools qualifying for the final stage.

Despite coming from a different religious background and initial resistance from his grandmother, Desmond said his interest in the Bible stemmed from the moral lessons it teaches. “We devoted one hour daily over the past week to read and study the Bible under the guidance of our teachers,” Desmond said. “This constant practice helped us prepare for this feat today.”

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Speaking about Desmond, his teacher, Mrs. Barwa Adeyemi, described him as a brilliant and disciplined child. “He lost his mother at a young age and comes from a humble background,” she noted. “But he is committed and spiritually inclined. He shows genuine interest in the things of God.”

According to Grace Benjamin, Production and Programmes Manager of the BSN, the initiative is aimed at reviving Godly values in children in the face of growing moral decadence in society.

“Our motivation is to raise children who know and uphold Biblical values. When we catch them young, they grow up with strong moral foundations. This way, they won’t get involved in the vices we see around today. That’s how we build a better society through godly children who grow into responsible adults,” she said.

Benjamin explained that schools were invited through social media and direct outreach, and participants answered questions from My 100 Best-Loved Bible Stories.

Beyond the competition, she emphasised the benefits of such gatherings: “The children interacted, competed, and learned outside their school environment. This kind of experience helps shape them beyond academics. We want to raise well-rounded children — strong in academics, morals, and social values.”

Participants were rewarded with school bags, Bibles, educational materials such as Scrabble and learning games, medals, and plaques for their schools.

However, the BSN expressed the need for greater support. “We would love to do more — even offer scholarships — but we’re limited by finances,” Benjamin added. “We are calling on well-meaning Nigerians, churches, and organisations to partner with us in supporting these children. Just as secular competitions offer big prizes, we believe our children who excel in Bible knowledge deserve even more.”