Why Was Maryam Yusuf’s Niqab Edited Out After She Won Gold for Nigeria?
Four brilliant Nigerian students won gold in the Middle School category at the 2026 Spelling Bee World Cup in China. Maryam Yusuf of Ar-Raheem International Schools proudly represented Nigeria wearing her niqab. Yet a national newspaper’s published photo appears to show her without it. If this change was deliberate, serious questions arise. Who authorised the edit and why was her religious identity removed? Journalism should report facts, not alter the portrayal of a young champion. Vanguard should clarify whether it created or simply used the altered image. Nigerians deserve transparency and must celebrate Maryam’s achievement with truth and respect.
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