Organisers of NISMCAA are dedicated not only to celebrating excellence but also to maintaining fairness and integrity
Honeyland Strikes Gold… Lagos School’s Reggae Twist Steals the Show at National Music Contest
In a triumphant turn of events, Honeyland Schools from the Abesan area of Lagos State has clinched the top spot at the ninth National Interschool Music Competition and Academic Award (NISMCAA), walking away with a N200,000 prize, a gleaming trophy, and medals for its talented orchestra.
The victory, announced on April 4, 2025, came after a dramatic review overturned an earlier error, cementing Honeyland’s place as champions of the competition themed “Music for Social Change.”
The journey to the crown wasn’t without its hiccups. Originally held on February 13, 2025, at the University of Lagos, the ninth edition hit a snag when a miscalculation in the scores led to an incorrect winner being declared. But after a thorough review by the organizers, Honeyland emerged as the rightful victor, proving that talent—and a little reggae flair—can’t be denied.
Olubunmi Adebowale, Executive Director of NISMCAA, addressed the crowd with a stirring speech: “We are here not just to celebrate excellence, but to uphold fairness and integrity. Errors happen, but it’s how we correct them that defines us.
“Honeyland College’s outstanding performance embodies the spirit of this competition, and today, we give them the recognition they’ve earned.” Adebowale also promised tighter verification measures moving forward, ensuring such mix-ups remain a thing of the past.
David Abduljabba, chairman of the Review Committee, echoed this sentiment, praising the transparency that led to Honeyland’s victory. “This moment reassures everyone that meritocracy reigns supreme at NISMCAA,” he said.
For Honeyland, the win was a testament to grit and creativity. School administrator Akinleye Oludayo couldn’t hide his pride: “The organizers showed true integrity, and we’re thrilled to be recognized.”
Music director Adeniyi Bamidele revealed the secret behind their winning tune: “We’d prepped an afrobeats track, but I had a gut feeling to switch to reggae—something fresh and bold. The school backed us all the way, and it paid off big time.”
This isn’t Honeyland’s first rodeo—they’ve tasted victory in the competition before—but this latest triumph, sealed with a cheque and a trophy, feels extra sweet.
As the orchestra members flaunt their medals, it’s clear: Honeyland’s harmony of hard work and innovation has struck a chord that resonates far beyond the stage. Read More
