Nigerian students win international debate competitions

Students from public Junior Secondary Schools in Kwara, Katsina, and Benue states have brought home trophies for Nigeria after winning three international debate competitions held in Indonesia, Singapore, and Dubai.

On Friday, the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, received the trophies in Abuja from Usman Mohammad, Chairman of the National Advisory Board of the President’s School Debate of Nigeria. Dr. Sununu praised the students for their remarkable achievements and urged them to maintain high standards.

He emphasized reviving school debate clubs to enhance students’ communication and critical thinking skills.

Dr. Sununu stated, “I congratulate the champions for their feats. It is always easier to win, but the winning must be sustained. We will continue to support you throughout the administration of President Bola Tinubu, which has demonstrated a strong commitment to the education sector. The eight-point agenda prioritizes education with knowledge, character, and skills.”

He also encouraged the organizers of the school debate competition to develop topics that address the issue of out-of-school children in the country. He urged the winning students to act as role models and inspire out-of-school children to return to education.

Usman Mohammad commended state governors for sponsoring the students’ participation in international competitions and called on private sectors and well-meaning Nigerians to support student sponsorships.

Mr. Dare Oritu, National Coordinator and President of School Debate, highlighted the competition’s 20-year history and its contributions to Nigeria’s international reputation.

Speaking on behalf of the students, Miss Ene Aduba, a student from UBE Girls Junior Secondary School in Benue state, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their talents globally.

She shared her motivation, stating, “My experience is a lifetime one. I enjoyed every bit of the debate. Competing with students from different parts of the world is something I will never forget. I have travelled across oceans and seas, and I am very grateful for this opportunity. My motivation was my Daddy. While preparing for the debate, I lost him, and I resolved to work hard to make him proud.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the teams from Kwara, Katsina, and Benue states topped the debate competitions held between January and May 2024.