Students from Delta State have emerged champions at the 2025 National Basic Education Debate Championship, earning the prestigious honour of representing Nigeria at the forthcoming World Schools Debate Championship in Doha, Qatar.
The competition, organised by the President’s Schools Debate, brought together top young debaters from all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory to showcase their oratory skills, critical thinking, and teamwork.
The winning team from Delta State comprises Wisdom Chukwuma of Government College, Ughelli; Otorvo Uyoyou of Alegbo Secondary School, Effurun; Abraham Honour of Okpaka Secondary School, Okpaka; Ekhamateh Splendour of Government Model Secondary School, Asaba; and Alika Daniel of Utagba-Ogbe Grammar School, Kwale.
Distinguishing themselves through compelling argumentation, eloquence, and a firm grasp of contemporary issues, the Delta team outperformed their peers in a series of intense rounds to emerge champion.
This historic achievement marks a significant milestone in Delta State’s educational advancement efforts under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
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Receiving the students at Government House, Asaba, Tuesday, Governor Oborevwori described their victory as a testament to his administration’s unwavering commitment to education.
He said: “I am truly delighted by the intellectual depth and eloquence demonstrated by these students. They are true ambassadors of Delta State”.
“This win proves that our investments in education through school renovation, teachers recruitment and training, provision of instructional materials, and promotion of extracurricular activities are yielding tangible results.”
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the transformative power of education, describing it as the bedrock of any successful life. He expressed particular pride that the students, though trained locally, could stand tall on any global stage.
“When I see children of this age speak so intelligently, I am very happy. These are not children trained abroad, they are homegrown talents, nurtured here in Delta State. It shows how much we value education,” he said.
The Governor noted that their success would further inspire his administration to deepen investments in the educational sector.
“Representing Nigeria on the global stage means you have already made us proud. Winning the national debate confirms we are on the right path. It motivates us to do even more for our children,” he added.
As part of his administration’s MORE Agenda, the Governor announced that the state government would fully sponsor the students’ trip to the World Schools Debate Championship in Qatar.
Governor Oborevwori, said: “Delta State is proud to sponsor your international trip without hesitation. We are equally committed to supporting other talented Deltans who can represent the state positively”.
He charged the students to be of good conduct, listen to their coaches, and seize the opportunity to learn and grow from the international exposure.
“As you embark on this trip, we expect you to conduct yourselves honourably, learn as much as you can, and return with success. By God’s grace, you will come back victorious in Jesus’ name,” he prayed.
Reiterating the state’s can-do spirit, Oborevwori assured the team of their potential for global success, saying, “Delta no dey carry last.
“You are champions already, and I believe you will achieve even greater things at the world competition. This debate is not just an event—it is a foundation for your future”.
The Governor also commended the students’ parents for their support and upbringing, urging the team to make their families and the state proud.
Continuing, he said: “You are the ambassadors of this state. The future lies in your hands. With the right training and support, there is no limit to what you can achieve. I wish you journey mercies and pray that you will return with victory. You have started well and you will finish well, in Jesus’ name.”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Primary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu, congratulated the students for being worthy representatives of the state, commending their stellar performance at the national level.
Also speaking, Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Samuel Mariere, said: “We sincerely thank you for the logistics and financial support provided for the championship. The children have made Delta State very proud, and we promise to give our best as we prepare for the World Championship”.
Leader of the victorious team, Chukwuma Wisdom, also thanked Governor Oborevwori for his contributions to improving school infrastructure and for his encouragement throughout the national competition.
He assured that the team would make both the state and the nation proud at the world stage.
